Washington: Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, the UAE's Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, ADNOC Managing Director and Group CEO, and Executive Chairman of XRG, has been honored with the 2026 Distinguished Global Leadership Award by the Middle East Institute (MEI) in Washington, DC. Dr. Al Jaber dedicated this prestigious recognition to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the nation's frontline workers.
According to Emirates News Agency, the award was presented during MEI's 80th Anniversary Gala, acknowledging Dr. Al Jaber's significant impact on energy, industry, technology, and economic growth. His commitment to international cooperation and long-term development, including addressing energy demand through emerging markets and artificial intelligence, was highlighted.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Al Jaber expressed gratitude to President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed for his leadership and guidance. He remarked, "Everything I know about leadership, I learned from one person. His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. His vision has shaped every chapter of my journey. And I mean every chapter." Dr. Al Jaber praised the President for embodying leadership through actions, ensuring stability and protection for citizens, residents, and visitors.
Dr. Al Jaber emphasized the critical role of frontline workers in maintaining the nation's safety and continuity following recent challenges, including terrorist threats. He lauded the bravery of armed forces, civil defense personnel, nurses, and engineers who continued their duties amid adversity. "No one ordered them to be brave. They simply were," he noted.
Highlighting the importance of energy security, Dr. Al Jaber stated, "Energy security is not a slogan. It is the difference between lights on and lights off." He criticized the destabilizing actions of Iran in the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as "economic terrorism" impacting global economies and consumers.
Dr. Al Jaber underscored the strong UAE-US partnership, built on shared values and strategic cooperation in energy, trade, investment, and security. He stressed that such alliances are crucial as the Middle East faces pivotal choices between instability and progress, bombs and bridges. The UAE, he affirmed, has chosen openness, dialogue, and commerce.
Throughout his career, Dr. Al Jaber has advocated for strengthened UAE-US relations through pragmatic partnerships, supporting regional stability and energy flow. The MEI announced his award in July 2025, recognizing his efforts.
Founded in 1946, the MEI plays a vital role in fostering dialogue and cooperation between the US and the Middle East, especially crucial for regional stability.
