Ras Al Khaimah: Shaikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum played a prominent role in developing the country and supporting people, said nationals here.
The UAE has lost a great leader. "We will never forget him," they said.
Shaikh Maktoum has never turned down a request by a national, they pointed out.
The late UAE Vice-President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai exerted all possible efforts to promote Dubai and the UAE.
Ahmad Lahah, a member of the UAE Federal National Council, said: "Shaikh Maktoum dedicated his life to serve his country, Arab and Muslim causes."
He said Shaikh Maktoum's death was the second major tragedy to hit nationals, following the death of Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
He said nationals needed to be strong and endure these tragedies, they should have ultimate faith in God and be patient. His death should motivate nationals to follow in his footsteps and dedicate their lives to the country, he said.
Mohammad Al Naqbi, the Chief of Khatt in Ras Al Khaimah, said people should love the country the way both Shaikh Zayed and Shaikh Maktoum did.
He said Shaikh Maktoum had visited Ras Al Khaimah several times and met nationals on many occasions.
He said when nationals spoke to Shaikh Maktoum, they believed he was their father or elder brother. "Shaikh Maktoum's logic was astonishing and clearly showed his leadership capabilities."
Al Naqbi said Shaikh Maktoum was a man who carefully observed UAE customs and traditions. "When he met people older than him, he let them go ahead of himself, showing respect and setting an example to younger generations."
Abdullah Al Shuraiqi, a member of the UAE Federal National Council, said Shaikh Maktoum was a teacher for those who wanted to learn. He said a lot could be learnt if Shaikh Maktoum's actions were followed.
He said Shaikh Maktoum was charismatic and had a great influence on nationals and the history of the UAE, to which he contributed until the final moments of his life.
