UAE: Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan Named As New President

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MBZ) has been named the new president of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

This is after late President Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan was reported dead on Friday.

The state-run WAM news agency said the rulers of the country's seven sheikhdoms made the decision at a meeting held in Al Mushrif Palace in Abu Dhabi on Saturday.

The Daily Sabah added that the transition of power marks only the third time this U.S.-allied nation of seven sheikhdoms has selected a president since becoming an independent nation in 1971.

Dubai's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, said on Twitter that; "We congratulate him, and we pledge allegiance to him, and our people pledge allegiance to him."

"The whole country is led by him to take it on the paths of glory and honor, God willing.”

The UAE as a whole is observing a three-day mourning period for the late President which will see businesses shut across the country.