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UAE's Year of Community: A celebration of cherished Emirati values

UAE's Year of Community: A celebration of cherished Emirati values
29 Jan 2025 00:15

SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)

Emiratis from all walks of life were united in welcoming the announcement of 2025 as the Year of Community in the UAE, highlighting that the national initiative is borne out of the cherished Emirati values, where community cohesion forms an integral element in driving societal progress.President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has declared 2025 as the Year of Community under the slogan "Hand in Hand" in a national initiative that reflects the leadership's vision to foster a united and empowered community.

The initiative aims to unite and empower society by strengthening family bonds, preserving heritage, and encouraging active participation in societal progress. It also focuses on innovation and skills development, particularly in emerging fields like AI.

Emirati poet Saif Munassar Al Harthi said: "The Year of Community declaration represents a call to work 'hand in hand' to enhance the values of social cohesion and support family ties in light of the rapid changes witnessed by the world. This initiative highlights the importance of community unity as an integral part of our Emirati identity. The Emirati people, armed with science and knowledge, are able to achieve goals and ambitions, overcome challenges and build a sustainable future for future generations to come."

Al Harthi noted that preserving the UAE's cultural heritage begins at home.

"The more it turns into practice and behaviours, the more we enhance its presence and position in our conscience," he explained. 

Al Harthi also stressed the key role of youth in the Year of Community. "Young people are the focus of the vision of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan," he said.

He highlighted the importance of encouraging participation in events, activities, and festivals to further strengthen cultural preservation.

Hamed Al Hamed, the founder of Gracia Group and Chairman of the Emirates Agricultural Pioneers Association, said: "People are gradually becoming more aware of the importance of society. Government agencies are focusing on initiatives that connect people, creating an exchange of knowledge, transferring expertise, and fostering greater cooperation between members of the government, private, semi-government, and NGO sectors."

He highlighted volunteer work as a clear demonstration of one's dedication and love for their country.

Dr. Ibrahim Ali Mohamed, Chairman of the Environment Friends Society (EFS), said: "The UAE's vision reflects the enhancement of social cohesion, by strengthening family ties and involving everyone in building a cohesive and cooperative society. The expected role of everyone is to enhance the spirit of shared responsibility, whether through volunteering, and supporting initiatives that focus on improving the quality of life."

"We must not forget the private sector, educational institutions, and the media, which play a pivotal role in spreading awareness and supporting community programmes," he added.

Dr. Ali Mohamed stressed the importance of empowering youth, saying: "Young people are the main driver and real investment for society," and stressed the need for a supportive environment focused on education, training, and recognition of their contributions.

Dr. Eman AlHashmi, the first Emirati female composer and founder of Auto-Immune Association (AIA), said that the Year of Community initiative is an important step towards enhancing social cohesion and supporting family ties in the UAE.

"This initiative certainly aims to enhance the community spirit and the sense of belonging and cooperation among members of society, and as the first Emirati female composer, I see in this harmony and concordance similar to a fully-fledged musical piece."

Dr. AlHashmi highlighted the crucial role of youth, stating: "Young people and promising talents are the infrastructure for achieving all the goals," and stressed the need to provide opportunities for learning, development, support, and participation in community initiatives.

For Amina Bin Kalli, an Emirati beekeeper, the initiative reflects the UAE's vision of building a cohesive and cooperative society that is characterised by harmony and understanding. 

"The importance of this initiative is evident in strengthening national identity, belonging and pride in the homeland, strengthening family ties, and activating the societal role. 'Hand in hand' reflects the essence of Emirati values based on cohesion and cooperation," she said.

She also noted that youth are crucial in societal leadership, leading innovative and awareness-raising initiatives through encouragement, training, and funding for community projects.

Also commenting on the occasion, Emirati Chef Muna Al Mansoori stressed the value of community participation for personal and societal growth.

"Community participation is vital for all Emirati employees, whether in the public or private sector. It benefits individuals by enhancing experience, and fostering societal development through cultural exchange."

Al Mansoori highlighted the importance of youth in UAE's rapid development, stating that they preserve the authenticity of the old generation while fostering creativity and forming the foundation for future developments.

"Preserving heritage, especially oral traditions, is key. At the same time, embracing technology and AI is essential to stay globally competitive."

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