The President of the United Arab Emirates and Emir of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has died, according to the official state agency of the country, WAM.

“The Ministry of Presidential Affairs sends its the people of the UAE, the Arab and Islamic nations and the world over the death of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE,” the statement said.

The emir died at the age of 74. He became head of state on November 3, 2004, replacing his father, Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

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