The National Theatre in Abu Dhabi hosted the opening performance of the national heritage play “Zayed’s Ambition Reaches Space” on Thursday. The event was attended by H.H. Sheikha Dr. Shamma bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan, Chairperson of the Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan Cultural and Educational Institutions, in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and Youth and the Ministry of Education.
The play is part of a national initiative aimed at children, designed to inspire values of ambition, innovation, and love for homeland among younger generations. The story follows an Emirati child who dreams of becoming an astronaut, inspired by the vision of the founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
In her speech, Sheikha Shamma expressed her pride in the play, describing it as a reflection of the spirit of the UAE. She said the play is not just a performance, but a message that shows children that knowledge and technology are the wings that help them build the future, while their cultural heritage gives them strength and identity.
She added that the play reflects a nation that turned dreams into reality, and that true progress comes from combining knowledge with strong roots and values.
Sheikha Dr. Shamma bint Mohammed spoke about the legacy of the founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, saying:
“He didn’t just dream of building a country, he started a project to build people. He believed that true progress comes from knowledge and education, and that strong values are not limits, but a gateway to a more advanced and humane society. He also believed that identity is not a barrier, but a bridge connecting the past and the future. Real progress is not about rejecting heritage or being stuck in it, but about turning it into energy that pushes us toward a better future.”
She also pointed out that under the leadership of H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, the country continues to follow these strong values set by the founders.
She added:
“Our President reminded us that the UAE is a shared responsibility. It is a trust we received from our parents and grandparents, and we will pass it on to future generations. The homeland does not belong to one generation; it is a continuous journey. And the flag is not just handed over as a symbol, but as a responsibility and awareness, so that progress continues and ambitions are achieved.”
She addressed the Emirati children in the audience, saying:
“My children, the message of this play is clear: raising the UAE flag in space starts with raising your determination, in the classroom, at home, and in every part of your life. It begins with staying true to your values and being inspired by the vision of your leadership, which believes that education and investing in people are the fastest and most honest path to the future, toward AI, technology, and endless knowledge. Education and knowledge are not choices; they are the only way to be part of a world that is changing every day.”
Sheikha Dr. Shamma also emphasized that true art is what awakens awareness and makes people think. She thanked the play’s team and praised their efforts in turning the script into a lively and meaningful performance.
Timeless Values
Mohammed Adeeb Hijazi, Chairman of HRE Real Estate Development and the initiator of the project, expressed his pride in supporting this national cultural work.
He said that the values established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan continue to inspire generations toward ambition and leadership. He added that under the leadership of H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE continues to reflect these strong and authentic values.
He also explained that the play “Zayed’s Ambition Reaches Space” carries an educational and artistic message aimed at building values of loyalty, belonging, and creativity among Emirati children.
He noted that the play will be performed for school students across all emirates, stressing that investing in children’s culture is a real investment in the future of the nation. He also emphasized that supporting culture and education is a key part of the company’s commitment to the UAE society.
Heritage and Future
The play presented educational and artistic scenes that combine Emirati heritage with a vision of the future in space, in a story full of energy and inspiration, reflecting the UAE’s determination to continue its journey of leadership and innovation.
The audience showed great engagement and admiration for the performance, seeing it as a meaningful artistic message that reflects the values of Sheikh Zayed and inspires future generations to follow his path toward space and global leadership.
At the end of the event, Sheikha Shamma bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan honored the initiator Mohammed Adeeb Hijazi, along with the play’s team and the organizing team.