UAE President Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Dies

United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan passed away on Friday at age 73.

Al Nahyan, son of UAE founder Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, served as president of the UAE for 17 years and as the Emir of Dubai. He was also the half-brother of Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MBZ).

"On behalf of the people of Israel I send my deepest condolences to my friend Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed and his family on the death of HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE," Israeli President Isaac Herzog said.

"This is a great loss for our friends in the UAE and for the whole region. Sheikh Khalifa's bold leadership contributed so much to the advancement of the UAE and its people and to the growing partnership between our countries and is a great legacy for his successors. His life's work pushed the Middle East to new horizons of prosperity and cooperation."

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett added his condolences and those of the government and citizens of Israel in a separate statement.

"I express my condolences to my friend Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and to the Government and people of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on the passing of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.

"Sheikh Khalifa's great legacy and deeds were appreciated by many in Israel. The State of Israel stands alongside the UAE and its people at this difficult time."