UAE: ‘Guiding light, role model' Hasan Ibrahim Al Fardan passes away
'With profound sorrow, I share the passing of my beloved grandfather, Haj Hasan Ibrahim Al Fardan, the visionary leader and Honorary Chairman of Al Fardan Group,' Hasan Fardan Al Fardan, CEO of Al Fardan Exchange LLC, posted on LinkedIn on Friday.
'To the world, he was a pioneer who began his journey in 1954 with pearl trading and went on to build a diversified enterprise rooted in resilience, humility, and an enduring commitment to excellence,' said the younger Al Fardan, adding poignantly: 'To me, he was far more than a grandfather. He was my guiding light, my role model, and the steady foundation of our family.'
'His love for the UAE and its leadership ran deep. He firmly believed in the promise of its people, and often said that his greatest hope was to see Emirati generations thrive and contribute meaningfully to the nation's story. I am grateful that he lived to witness those hopes coming true,' he added.
Al Fardan Group sent a statement to Khaleej Times on Saturday announcing the passing of Al Fardan.
'As one of the last great pearl merchants in the region, (he) was a living testament to the UAE's rich maritime heritage. His expertise in pearl valuation preserved a crucial aspect of Emirati cultural identity while establishing standards of excellence that elevated the entire industry.
Under his exceptional leadership, Al Fardan Group evolved from its pearl trading origins into a diversified business conglomerate. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence helped take Al Fardan Group to unprecedented heights, laid strong foundations for the UAE's business community, and inspired future generations of Emirati business leaders,' the statement added.
Al Fardan Group announced they will be observing a mourning period of three days in their founder's honour.
Legacy with a purpose
For Hasan his grandfather's journey 'was never solely about building a successful business it was about uplifting others, and creating a legacy with purpose, heart, and humanity. His wisdom, generosity, and quiet strength left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
'The lessons (my grandfather) instilled in me continue to shape the way I work, lead, and live. His blessings are the light that guide me forward. Though his passing leaves a space no words can fill, his spirit, values, and legacy will remain forever with us and with the generations to come. May Allah (SWT) envelop his soul in mercy and grant him eternal peace,' he added.
Pivotal in our national growth
Meanwhile, in a commentary published by Khaleej Times back in September 2023, Hasan said nurturing local talent is essential for cultivating UAE leaders of the future.
He wrote: 'In 1971, the same year the UAE was established, our founder and honorary chairman (my grandfather) Hasan Ibrahim Al Fardan, founded Al Fardan Exchange.
Consistently emphasising the crucial role of cultivating Emirati talent and future leaders, he recognised that Emiratis have been pivotal in driving our national growth and will remain indispensable in realising the UAE's ambitious aspirations in the coming decades. Thus, as a family, we have always felt a duty to provide training and opportunities for UAE nationals, with the aim of fostering and elevating their capabilities to take on leadership positions,' Hasan added.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Sharjah 24
15 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
NMO honours media professionals and content creators
Acknowledging media's role in national representation Abdulla Al Hamed emphasised the National Media Office's commitment to engaging with media professionals and content creators in appreciation of their vital role in portraying the positive image of the United Arab Emirates, raising societal awareness, and highlighting national achievements in a professional and purposeful manner. Supporting creativity and reinforcing national values He noted that this recognition stems from the NMO's belief in the importance of supporting talent and motivating them to continue their creativity, thereby reinforcing the media message that reflects the country's values and future vision. Spotlight on the upcoming BRIDGE Summit He also pointed out that the BRIDGE Summit, scheduled to be held in Abu Dhabi from December 8 to 10, represents an important opportunity to unify the efforts of media professionals, creators, and content producers under one umbrella that presents to the world a model of media based on positive influence. He called on everyone to seize this opportunity to enhance the presence of Emirati media at this summit. Launch of the National Bloggers Council He further announced the launch of the National Bloggers Council, which will include everyone, with the aim of unifying the national narrative, strengthening national identity, highlighting achievements, and countering rumours and media misinformation. Celebrating purposeful communication For his part, Dr. Jamal Mohammed Obaid Al Kaabi, Director-General of the National Media Office, stated during the ceremony that this celebration is in recognition of the contributions of media professionals and content creators who have helped solidify the UAE's presence on both regional and international stages. Honouring creators of influence He noted that supporting media talent is an integral part of a national vision that believes purposeful communication is one of the most powerful tools for influence and for bolstering the UAE's global reputation. He continued: 'Today, we honour the creators of words — those who go beyond mere news coverage or the delivery of raw information. They actively participate in building societal awareness, instill a sense of belonging, and enlighten minds in an era crowded with competing narratives and a pressing need for confident, steadfast national voices capable of confronting diverse challenges.' Awards ceremony and documentary screening Abdulla Al Hamed, accompanied by the Director-General of the National Media Office, honoured media professionals and content creators who have distinguished themselves with impactful contributions in supporting the state's media message and enhancing the UAE's standing in the media world. The ceremony included a documentary film highlighting key milestones of Emirati media, achievements made possible by the efforts of national media professionals, as well as scenes depicting the contributions of content creators in raising public awareness and portraying the bright image of the UAE across various digital platforms.
Sharjah 24
20 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
SIH explores cultural cooperation with Zanzibar
Leadership of the delegation The delegation was headed by His Excellency Dr Abdul Aziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, and accompanied by His Excellency Saleh Ahmed Saif Al-Hemeiri, Consul General of the United Arab Emirates to the United Republic of Tanzania in Zanzibar. They were received by His Excellency Dr Aboud Suleiman Jumbe, Principal Secretary of the Zanzibar Ministry of Tourism and Heritage. Enhancing cultural and tourism cooperation The visit included discussions on prospects for bilateral cooperation through the implementation of cultural initiatives and training programmes, as well as documentation projects that contribute to highlighting Emirati and Zanzibar heritage on the international stage. The meeting also addressed ways to support cultural tourism as a fundamental pillar of sustainable development. International partnerships for heritage preservation His Excellency Dr Abdul Aziz Al Musallam emphasised that this visit falls within the Institute's strategy to expand regional and international partnerships, enhance knowledge exchange in the fields of preserving intangible cultural heritage, and support institutional efforts to preserve and transmit it to future generations. UAE–Zanzibar cultural commitment For his part, His Excellency Consul General Saleh Ahmed Saif Al-Hemeiri praised the depth of the cultural partnership between the two sides, noting the UAE's commitment to developing bilateral relations with Zanzibar, particularly in the tourism, education, and creative industries sectors. Outlook for Future Initiatives His Excellency Dr Aboud Suleiman Jumbe explained that this visit represents an extension of the growing bilateral relations, which witnessed a strong boost following the visit of His Excellency Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, President of Zanzibar, to the UAE in January 2022. He emphasised that the next phase will witness the launch of new initiatives that enhance cooperation in the fields of culture, tourism, and cultural diplomacy.
Sharjah 24
20 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
Al Dhaid Date Festival supports productive families
Supporting heritage and innovation through local participation Productive families are showcasing a diverse range of innovative, heritage-inspired products, celebrating Emirati culture and entrepreneurship. Their participation highlights the festival's commitment to empowering communities economically and socially, while promoting the cultural and commercial value of date palms. Traditional products attract visitors The productive families' pavilion has drawn significant visitor interest, offering items such as traditional palm-based crafts like woven baskets and heritage containers, Emirati dishes such as harees and machboos, and locally produced honey, Emirati spices, and Arabic coffee blends. SCCI reaffirms commitment to social responsibility His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director-General of SCCI, emphasized that the involvement of productive families aligns with the chamber's corporate social responsibility strategy and the broader goals of the 'Year of Community', fostering inclusivity and sustainable development. Showcasing generational craftsmanship Participant Khesbah Saeed Mohammed shared her enthusiasm for the festival, where she annually presents her handmade crafts like sarod and mahafat, passed down from her mother. Her work highlights the festival's role in preserving traditional palm-frond skills across generations. Bridging tradition and modernity Maryam Al Yamahi featured a collection of palm-related crafts such as makhareef and saf, blending modern design elements to appeal to contemporary consumers. She praised the festival for its role in market expansion, business growth, and entrepreneurial support. A rich cultural and commercial experience Running daily from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, the Al Dhaid Date Festival offers a comprehensive visitor experience centered on dates and seasonal fruits, while continuing to serve as a strategic platform for supporting productive families and local artisans.
