The Parade

Hail thee! Whenever the wind blows,
With fragrance of musk and perfume combined.

Hail thee to whom the heart yields,
Oh leader, all his people love him.

Oh master of the reins of glory, oh supreme,
Oh leader, collapses description without him.

Oh his rank, more noble than any rank,
No one is greater than Zayed in his world.

Witnesses history of him all proof,
Higher than all heights his branches.

When united us with truth and faith,
And the flag of unity is glorious.

In faithfulness faithful and for justice a balance,
And his word set in splendour sure.

In conviction apt, alters it no one,
Ideal in matters momentous all follow.

Guided our unity to a higher plane,
With progress and prosperity inspired by his law.

Protected our present from the eyes of enemies,
And our hearts for him plentiful with devoted love.

We are proud of his name throughout all time,
Long live thee to whom the Emirates are indebted.

* The original Arabic text from which this poem is translated follows a traditional
Arabic rhythmic style used to praise leaders. It is a distinct, fast style much like a military march.