A Remarkable Life: Remembering Emirati Centenarian Abdullah Duha Askar Al Kaabi
Abdullah Duha Askar Al Kaabi, a 107-year-old Emirati who lived through the UAE's most transformative historical chapters, has passed away following a long struggle with cancer. Born in Sharjah’s Al Fli region in 1919, Al Kaabi witnessed the nation's humble beginnings and its eventual rise to modern prosperity, including the historic unification of 1971. After a six-year battle with his illness, he spent his final days under care at Shakhbout Hospital, leaving behind a legacy defined by his immense kindness and a profound connection to the history of the Emirates.
Beyond his longevity, Al Kaabi was celebrated by those who knew him as a man of wisdom and integrity. Despite having no formal education, he became a pillar of his community, known for his sharp wit, mediation skills, and talent for resolving conflicts. His son, Mohammed, shared that his father maintained a disciplined, active lifestyle—preferring to walk rather than drive—and possessed an incredible memory that spanned nearly a century. Even in his final moments, his deep devotion to his faith remained unshaken, as he sought peace in prayer and expressed profound gratitude for the long, full life he was privileged to lead.