Release and initial success of Sheikh Mohammed ‘s book
Following the tremendous success of his earlier memoir My Story, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s newest book Lessons from Life is seeing a remarkable reception across the UAE. Released on September 14 this year, the Arabic edition quickly sold out upon release, and the newly released English version is now hitting shelves amid high demand. The book delivers 35 chapters of leadership insights, life experiences, and personal reflections from one of the region’s most influential statesmen—designed to inspire generations across languages and geographies.Bookshops throughout the UAE have been rushing to restock the Arabic edition of Lessons from Life, the latest book by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Released just weeks ago, the Arabic version has already outperformed his 2019 bestseller My Story in terms of initial sales, with displays featured prominently in store windows, at point-of-sale counters, and in featured sections of bookstores. Now, the English edition has officially launched, adding to the momentum surrounding the title.
Content and purpose of ‘Lessons from Life’ by Sheikh Mohammed
Lessons from Life is a 35-chapter book that delves into major milestones from Sheikh Mohammed’s extensive leadership career, distilling principles of governance, human development, and personal philosophy. The book is not only a personal narrative but also a public resource, offering guidance on how to overcome challenges, create impact, and leave behind a legacy rooted in values and wisdom. Sheikh Mohammed described his intention behind the book: “I wanted this book to be simple in its words, frank in its expressions, and true in its meanings, so that it would reach from heart to heart.”Speaking on the purpose of the book, Sheikh Mohammed remarked that the most meaningful legacy one can leave behind is not physical infrastructure or wealth, but “true wisdom, beneficial knowledge, and kind words that transcend time and nation boundaries, benefiting everyone, near and far.”
Wide reception and cultural impact
The impact of the release has been immediate and widespread. Alistair Mackenzie, CEO of Explorer Publishing, the company behind the English edition, noted the significance of the work: “Lessons from Life is packed with insights from a transformational leader. In a part of the world where so few voices are published, the importance of this book shouldn’t be underestimated.” He also pointed to the exceptional demand for the book across the UAE.Major retailers are already seeing strong traction. The English edition, available from October 10, has reached bookshelves at Borders, Virgin Megastore, Magrudy’s, Kinokuniya, and other bookstores. It’s also being stocked at major supermarkets like Carrefour, Lulu, and Union Co-op, ensuring accessibility across retail formats. Online platforms including askexplorer.com, Amazon.ae, and Noon.com have also listed the book.Usha Pagarani, owner of Borders UAE, described the work as more than just a memoir: “It’s a gift from H.H. Sheikh Mohammed, after 60 years of passion and dedication, shared with every reader. The book allows us to see the principles and values that shaped his vision for Dubai and our beloved UAE.”Virgin’s Senior Multimedia and Lifestyle Director, Rob Wilkins, highlighted the broader appeal of the book: “It’s not only powerful, but also relatable to anyone looking for guidance in life.”Hubert Khan, Senior Buyer at Magrudy’s, called the book “a remarkable work that reflects wisdom, vision, and inspiration.” According to him, readers had been eagerly awaiting this release, the first from Sheikh Mohammed in five years, and are now responding with deep appreciation for the book’s “timeless lessons and fresh perspectives.”
Commercial success and legacy
The corporate sector is also showing interest. Siju Ravi, Manager of NPP & Books Division at Jashanmal, reported a surge in both individual and bulk orders: “We are receiving consistent inquiries not only from individual readers but also from corporate clients who are keen to purchase in bulk for gifting and knowledge-sharing purposes. This reflects the strong interest and respect towards H.H. Sheikh Mohammed’s works and the inspirational value it carries.”Lessons from Life builds on the legacy of Sheikh Mohammed’s previous works, particularly his widely read memoir My Story, which was published in 2019. My Story consists of 50 chapters chronicling his five decades in public service, covering landmark developments in Dubai and the UAE, and sharing behind-the-scenes accounts of the decisions and challenges that defined his leadership. Written in an engaging and accessible style, it provided readers with a detailed view of the vision and determination that shaped one of the world’s most dynamic cities.In contrast, Lessons from Life takes a more reflective, philosophical approach. It moves beyond storytelling into the realm of values and principles, aiming to serve as a blueprint for leadership and personal growth. Whether through lessons on public service or deeply personal reflections, the book aspires to serve a broader purpose: to inform, uplift, and inspire readers of all ages.With strong demand, wide availability, and growing anticipation across both Arabic- and English-speaking audiences, Lessons from Life is shaping up to be not only a commercial success but also a cultural milestone—one that further cements Sheikh Mohammed’s role as a statesman, storyteller, and source of inspiration for generations across the UAE and beyond.