Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has shared his criticism lesson from nearly six decades in public service, writing on 14 August that those who build what others do not yet understand must be willing to endure scrutiny without seeking universal approval.
The message appeared on his X account. ‘The nature of public work is that it invites criticism.. and you must endure it, do what is right.. Let them talk,’ he wrote.
He extended the point beyond governance. ‘If you seek the complete approval of people, then say nothing.. do nothing.. and be nothing.’
A criticism lesson rooted in six decades of governance
The post carries particular weight in the context of his forthcoming book. According to the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum official website, the book Almatani Alhayah (Life Taught Me) spans 35 chapters and draws on decades of leadership, experience and personal reflection.
In the book’s introduction, Sheikh Mohammed writes: ‘In just a few years, I will complete 60 years in public service, 60 years in governance, in serving people, and in navigating the journey of life.’ He adds: ‘I have learned much from life, and perhaps the greatest lesson is that I am not perfect.’
Part 1 of the book became available in bookstores on 25 September, shortly after the Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported the announcement on 14 September 2025. WAM described it as ‘a valuable contribution to the Arab library and serving as a source of inspiration for leaders, decision-makers, and the new generation of youth aspiring to shape the future.’
Family, memory and a separate reflection on 10 August
Four days before the criticism post, on 10 August, Sheikh Mohammed shared a different reflection, this one on family time. ‘Life taught me… that the greatest investment in vacations is not the number of cities we visit… but the number of moments we create with our families,’ he wrote.
‘Beautiful memories are happiness and energy that drive us to more work, achievement, and success,’ he added.
He published the message alongside a photograph of himself with Majid, the son of Afra Mahash Al Hameli. According to the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Al Hameli serves as Director of the Strategic Communications Department at the ministry.
The two posts are part of a long-running series of public reflections Sheikh Mohammed has shared across social media and in print. The book gathers those threads into a single volume, covering governance, public affairs and personal philosophy drawn from his time in leadership.
His X account, followed by millions, has become a regular channel for these dispatches, with the criticism lesson on 14 August among the more direct statements on the personal cost of public life that he has shared through his official platform.
Part 2 of Almatani Alhayah has not yet been given a release date by WAM or the official channels that covered the first instalment.
