UAE president Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed passes away

Dubai: Ministry of Presidential Affairs announced has announced the demise of UAE President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Friday, May 13.

A statement from the state news agency WAM read, "The Ministry of Presidential Affairs condoles the people of the UAE, the Arab and Islamic nation and the world over the demise of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the president of the UAE", with reference to Reuters.

Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan served as the president of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi since November 3, 2004.

According to WAM, the Presidential Affairs Ministry announced a 40-day period of mourning which will immediately begin, where flags will be at half-mast. Work in ministries and government departments on federal and local levels, as well as in the private sector, will also be suspended for three days effective immediately.

Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan is expected to take over as the ruler of Abu Dhabi.