The hallmark of Zayed’s leadership
The UAE’s founding father employed different styles, and his decisions were made based on the specific nature of the matter under consideration
style was mostly transformational, but was transactional and less participative in critical fields such as the military. In fields such as education and social support, Shaikh Zayed was very participative in his leadership.
In certain technical areas, Shaikh Zayed followed laissez-faire leadership style. He was not fully involved in the operations because the subordinates were capable of coming up with the appropriate decisions.
In the agriculture field, however, he was truly transformational and was confident that success in agriculture could be achieved. This inspired many people to own and operate their own farms.
Building a nation requires an adaptive leadership approach. Shaikh Zayed realised the importance of modifying his decision-making style depending on the period and the field. This flexibility in decision-making styles allowed him to be a more effective leader as perceived by his people.
Shaikh Zayed has built a modern country while maintaining the traditional role played by the father towards his family and people; thereby embodying the image of the modern statesman, who was at the same time distinguished by the qualities and values of a tribal leader.
Shaikh Zayed was a role model as a leader who was not only loved by his people, but highly appreciated all over the world. While we remember his unique characteristics and traits in the Year of Zayed, which commemorates his 100th birthday, the legacy of this great leader will live forever.
Ali Nasser Sultan Al Yabhouni Al Dhaheri adapted this from his PhD thesis, ‘Applicability of Classical Decision-Making Styles among Leaders in Modern Societies’, submitted to the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur.