The UAE Year of Community 2025 has officially concluded, marking the successful completion of a nationwide initiative that strengthened social bonds, encouraged participation, and reinforced a culture of unity, growth, and giving across the country.
Launched under the slogan “Hand in Hand,” the initiative brought together government entities, institutions, creatives, volunteers, and residents in a shared effort to build a more connected and inclusive society.
Throughout the year, the initiative highlighted the idea that community is shaped by everyone who calls the UAE home. Under the leadership of national partners and local contributors, programmes focused on collaboration, shared responsibility, and meaningful engagement. Rauda Al Falasi, Project Lead of the Year of Community, noted that the initiative reflected a collective story of connection, where diverse cultures and life journeys came together to drive social progress.
One of the year’s key initiatives was the open call “Who’s the ‘بــ’ in Your Life?”, inspired by the Arabic letter representing unity. It invited people to honour individuals who embody generosity and support within their communities, resulting in personal stories that celebrated family bonds, inspiration, and shared resilience.
The Year of Community also recognised individuals who made lasting contributions to society through partnerships with initiatives such as the Abu Dhabi Awards and Emirates Foundation. Volunteerism was expanded through programmes like “7 Volunteering Opportunities in 7 Emirates,” while creative collaborations with platforms such as MAKE Abu Dhabi and Cinema Akil transformed shared values into tangible cultural experiences.
Digital and physical participation played a major role. The “We Archive” platform collected memories and images from across all seven emirates, preserving everyday moments that reflect the UAE’s diversity and neighbourhood spirit. Creative projects, including the Emirati Birthday Song and community-designed art and products, further embedded cultural storytelling into public life.
The initiative also focused on future generations through educational and interactive projects, including the upcoming “UAE Craft: Community Edition” game, designed to teach children values of cooperation and unity through play.
As the UAE Year of Community 2025 comes to a close, its legacy is reflected in over 350 registered community initiatives and a strengthened sense of belonging, reinforcing that unity, growth, and giving remain enduring pillars of the nation’s future.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
