Today marks 50 years of Shaikh Zayed's accession as Ruler of Abu Dhabi

Dubai - Shaikh Zayed, who ruled the UAE for over 33 years from its independence in 1971 until his death in 2004, dedicated his life to the service of his country and his people.

It was exactly this day 50 years ago, on August 6, 1988, when the late Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the UAE, became the Ruler of Abu Dhabi.

Shaikh Zayed, who ruled the UAE for over 33 years from its independence in 1971 until his death in 2004, was one of the UAE's most loyal sons, having dedicated his life to the service of his country and his people. He helped realise the aspirations of the UAE and led its progress in all fields.

Shaikh Zayed: Life in pictures

Remembering the humanitarian, here's a look at his life and leadership from Khaleej Times photo archives.

Photo: Shaikh Zayed opens the second ordinary session of the third legislative chapter of the FNC on Nov 15, 1977.

Photo: Shaikh Zayed during a symposium of the Traffic week in 1972