Abu Dhabi wept last night. As the news of Shaikh Zayeds demise spread, the city plunged into gloom. At first, there was disbelief which gave way to shock. Verses from the Holy Quran were played over loudspeakers of mosques.
People took to the streets in hundreds, speaking only in whispers. Expatriate and UAE national residents from Abu Dhabi and its remote areas, pushed their way towards Al Bahar Palace where Shaikh Zayed had spent his last days.
The city wore a grim look as people flocked towards the palace while most shops downed their shutters to demonstrate their grief.
All roads leading to the palace were jam-packed with scores of cars coming in from every direction. All the approaches to the main Eastern Ring Road, where the palace is located, were blocked by the Traffic Department.
The entire area near the palace was cordonned off by police with only family members allowed to enter. Additional traffic police patrols were deployed in the heart of the city to control the traffic situation.
People in major shopping areas were shocked to hear the news and began leaving. Huge crowds thronged cafes and restaurants, and people were glued to the radio and the TV for the news. All main residential areas in the close proximity of the downtown area wore a deserted look.
Abu Dhabi Mall was deserted as shoppers learnt of the sad news, a security officer at the mall said. A number of shops at the Abu Dhabi and other malls also shut down as a sign of mourning.
Malls and other outlets also took off all colourful decorations, while major sports and other events were cancelled. The American Embassy also cancelled its Open House Election.
The mood in Al Ain, the city closest to Shaikh Zayeds heart, was one of gloom, as its residents tried to cope with the shock.
The news of Shaikh Zayeds death stunned the city as residents were in a state of disbelief and denial.
Many people, both UAE nationals and expatriates, were seen crying. Some were too grief-stricken to react.
As soon as the news broke, mosques in the city began recitation of the Holy Quran. People who were attending the taraweeh prayed for Shaikh Zayeds soul to rest in eternal peace.Biggest shock
Sayah Saif Al Mazroui, an elderly UAE national, said, Shaikh Zayeds death comes as the biggest shock for the country...we have lost our beloved leader and the father of our nation.
Shaikh Zayed nurtured his nation like his family, he said, tears streaming down his cheeks. He was such a kind person; the entire world will mourn his death. The mood in the city changed instantly when Abu Dhabi TV broke the news.
Traffic thinned out on city roads and shops and supermarkets were deserted.
Several people were seen rushing towards the palaces of prominent Shaikhs, where Ramadan majlises soon changed into gatherings of mourners.
People were seen weeping and consoling each other. Saif Saeed Al Kaabi, a young UAE national, said it was an irreplaceable loss.
Nobody can ever take Shaikh Zayeds place. His heart was filled with kindness and compassion for the nation. He was always attentive to the well-being of all UAE nationals, especially the elderly who had experienced much hardship.
Expatriates were also glued to TV sets, watching the series of documentaries on the life and achievements of Shaikh Zayed shown on various TV channels.
Out on the street, one UAE national, Rashid Al Nuaimi, refused to accept the reality. Its just simply unbelievable that he is no more among us. He has, however, left the nation on a strong footing. His great deeds have helped people worldwide, regardless of their cast and creed, he said.
Mohammad Abdullah Al Shamsi, another national, was steadfast in his belief: Who says Shaikh Zayed has passed away? He is there and will continue to guide us forever. He will be in our hearts till our dying day.
Gulf News
