Pope Francis, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on 21 April at the age of 88. His leadership was marked by efforts to bring different communities together and promote peace globally. Pope Francis was also the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
UAE leaders took to social media to express condolences to Catholics worldwide and also paid tribute to the Pope's legacy in promoting peace, tolerance and unity.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, has offered heartfelt condolences on the death of Pope Francis, stating, "I extend my deepest condolences to Catholics around the world on the passing of Pope Francis, who dedicated his life to promoting the principles of peaceful coexistence and understanding. May he rest in peace."
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, also expressed deep sadness at the Pope’s passing, describing Pope Francis as a great leader whose compassion and commitment to peace touched countless lives.
Pope Francis made history in 2019 by becoming the first Pope to visit the Arabian Peninsula. His visit was seen as a turning point in Catholic-Muslim relations and remains a proud moment in UAE history. During the visit, Pope Francis had led a public mass for worshippers, met with Muslim Council of Elders, led an inter-faith conference and also signed the Document on Human Fraternity, marking a major moment in promoting interfaith harmony.