The Vice President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, congratulated "the people of the UAE and all Arab and Islamic nations on the arrival of the holy month," asking "God for acceptance and rewards and success in paradise." He stated: "Ramadan is an opportunity… every year. An opportunity to enhance the cohesion of our communities… renew the bonds of our families… and instill the values of goodness and giving within us… Ramadan is not only a month of prayer and fasting but also a month of love, peace, and unity among Muslims. We ask God to accept from us and from you good deeds."