Latest news with #DepartmentOfCommunityDevelopment
The National
31-07-2025
- Politics
- The National
Emirati leader helping to strengthen community spirit inspired by Sheikh Zayed's teachings
A long-serving Emirati leader helping to strengthen the UAE's enduring sense of community has outlined the importance of championing unity and inclusivity in a proudly multi-cultural society. Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, chairman of Abu Dhabi's Department of Community Development, told The National of his determination to uphold the country's values and identity – which stretch back thousands of years before the Emirates was formed. As the UAE observes the Year of Community – launched by President Sheikh Mohamed in January – Dr Al Khaili said it was crucial to support the aspirations of citizens and expatriates to drive national progress. 'It's no longer 'I.' It's 'us'', he told The National, reflecting on the need for government policy to deliver a helping hand to all who call the Emirates home. The Department of Community Development was established in 2018 with the mission to promote sustainable growth and social well-being. Dr Al Khaili takes pride in his nation's rich history, which he believes have laid firm foundations for the rapid development of the UAE. 'My beginnings were like any other Emirati,' he said. 'I was born into a large extended family whose roots stretch deep into the fabric of UAE society. Our history goes back more than 5,000 years and the graves at Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain stand as proof of that.' He describes the country's early societal makeup - Bedouin, farmers, coastal people - not as divided communities but as a flowing, flexible network of relationships. 'They weren't isolated. They changed with the seasons. The fisherman could become a Bedouin, the farmer might go to the sea. That's why those distinctions don't exist today.' And while many associate Emirati identity with the UAE's founding in 1971, Dr Al Khaili is quick to correct that. 'The culture and values you see today didn't begin with the Union." he said. "They came long before. Sheikh Zayed preserved them and he built the nation on their foundation.' Warm memories of Sheikh Zayed Dr Al Khaili's philosophies were shaped in part by working under the guiding light of UAE Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, in his formative years in public service. Among the many stories he shared, one stands out - a moment he told Dr Al Khaili defined true leadership. 'Sheikh Zayed had sent me from Al Khazna Palace to check one of the areas that needed development. My car broke down on the way. When he learnt I hadn't arrived, he called me himself.' Dr Al Khaili explained where he was, what his surroundings looked like and the colour of his ghitra. It was red. 'Wave it from the sand dune when you see us coming,' Sheikh Zayed instructed. He offered to call someone else for help, but Sheikh Zayed refused. 'He said he would come himself. A while later, he called again – he apologised and said something had come up but that he was sending someone. "That call stayed with me. I was just an employee and he, the President, still called me himself to apologise for not coming himself. That's the kind of man he was.' It's the kind of leadership Dr Al Khaili still sees today. 'I see Sheikh Zayed in President Sheikh Mohamed. And I see Sheikh Mohamed in his son the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khaled. They each have their own character, but their values are the same.' He says that when you walk into Sheikh Mohamed's majlis, he greets you by name. 'That's humility. That's knowing your people.' Building social cohesion Dr Al Khaili spoke at length about Abu Dhabi's social fabric - one that continues to evolve without losing its core. 'The Emirati today is the continuation of a 5,000-year-old heritage and yes, he remains the priority. But the expatriate who comes with his knowledge, his experience, his investments, his heritage and his contributions is just as appreciated. "His religion is respected. His culture is respected. His values are respected. And above all, his security - and the security of his family - is protected. 'Our kids have friends from every background. Some expats who studied here left and came back later. The connection never goes away. Our friends are expats from different countries and who speak different languages. That's what makes the UAE special.' That sense of unity is reflected in the work of the Department of Community Development. Under his leadership, it has launched a series of initiatives focused on all people and on improving quality of life across the board. There's the Strategy for People of Determination, which promotes inclusion and accessibility across all sectors. Numou, which helps young Emirati families grow with confidence and shared responsibility. Medeem, a national drive preserving authentic Emirati wedding traditions and supporting newlyweds. Additionally, the Barakatna Initiative supports senior citizens and their caregivers through housing support, flexible work options and home adaptations. There is also a national strategy for youth currently in development. 'Youth are the future. And with all the changes around us – technology, influx of different cultures – we need to protect their values. We need to invest in their minds.' When asked what makes an Emirati, his answer came without hesitation. 'Our values. That's what makes us who we are. Our kindness. Our respect. Our generosity. These aren't slogans. These are real, lived traditions passed down through difficult times.' He explained how hardship shaped the character of the people and why those values must never be taken for granted. 'There were no resources back then. A Bedouin would arrive at a camp near an oasis, and before anything – before questions, before introductions – he'd be offered food, water, a place to rest. That was the custom. You gave even if you had very little. That's generosity rooted in survival, in dignity. 'These values are not negotiable. They're what keep us standing strong, even as the world changes around us. We can accept other cultures. We can coexist. But we don't imitate. We hold on to who we are.' The lesson he carries – and the one Sheikh Zayed lived by – is simple but powerful: 'If you don't listen, you won't understand. And when you don't understand, you make the wrong decision. That's arrogance and it is on you.' This work of listening, of preserving, of building is a continuous journey but also a shared one, he said. 'This is not just a story of leaders,' he added. 'It's a story of all of us. It is what makes the UAE unique.'
Zawya
10-07-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Department of Community Development announces second edition of the Social Care Forum
Abu Dhabi – As part of the Year of the Community, and in line with Abu Dhabi's ongoing efforts to strengthen the social care ecosystem and foster strategic dialogue aimed at enhancing quality of life, the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi has announced the second edition of the Social Care Forum. Under the theme 'Future-Ready Social Care: People, Practice, and Policy ,' the forum will take place on 24–25 September at Hilton Yas Abu Dhabi As the largest event of its kind in the Emirate, the forum will bring together leading experts, decision-makers, and local and international specialists in the social sector to explore key trends and developments in this vital field, aligning with the objectives of the Year of the Community 2025 The forum builds on the remarkable success of its first edition launched by the Department in 2024, which served as a strategic platform for social care stakeholders to address key challenges and opportunities, and contributed to strengthening Abu Dhabi's integrated social care system. It aims to support ongoing efforts to enhance quality of life through developing social policies and services and exchanging global experiences and best practices Mubarak Al Ameri, Executive Director of the Licensing and Social control Sector at the Department of Community Development, said that the first edition of the Social Care Forum served as a pioneering regional platform that brought together a wide range of local and international professionals and enriched strategic dialogue based on knowledge and practical experience. 'In this second edition, we continue to build on that momentum by deepening the discussions and expanding participation around the future of the social care system,' he added. He mentioned that this year's forum focuses on key themes including the future of social policies, workforce empowerment, data-driven practices, as well as the role of partnerships, technology, and innovation in developing sustainable social solutions. The forum also aligns with the objectives of the Year of the Community 2025 through supporting families and communities and enhancing social cohesion and well-being The second edition of the forum will highlight a wide range of essential topics that align with future trends in the social care sector, including the role of governments in shaping the future of care, the impact of digital transformation and artificial intelligence on service delivery and its implications for social care professionals and institutions, the empowerment of specialized workforces, and the strengthening of public-private partnerships. It will also explore emerging social issues such as child protection and family cohesion, while emphasizing the importance of adopting inclusive and evidence-based care models that meet the needs of all community groups, including children, youth, senior citizens, and families The forum will also focus on topics such as attracting young talent, promoting supportive work environments, and developing proactive support programs that cover different life stages. It will explore successful global experiences in social policy and dedicate space to showcasing the work of field professionals and presenting innovative models that can be applied in practice Interactive sessions will feature hands-on presentations and direct audience discussions addressing various topics such as elder care, family empowerment, youth development, and the measurement of social policy impact. The forum will also offer a specialized training program through certified tracks covering critical topics including the use of artificial intelligence in social care services, child protection and early risk detection, trauma-informed case management, and child and parent-centered family care. These programs represent a valuable opportunity to enhance the competencies of social care professionals and develop their practical skills within a long-term professional development journey The Social Care Forum reflects the Department of Community Development's commitment to building a safe and inclusive social environment in Abu Dhabi by developing policies and programs based on global best practices and activating collaboration frameworks and knowledge exchange to drive meaningful impact and build a modern social system that enhances quality of life for all members of society. -Ends- About the Department of Community Development The Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi was established in 2018 with the aim of regulating and overseeing the social sector through the development of legislation, policies, strategies, standards, and operational systems to enhance quality of life and ensure dignity for all community members. The Department provides high-quality and efficient social services that meet the needs of all segments of society and seeks to raise awareness, foster knowledge, and create innovative solutions to address priority social challenges You can follow the Department's social media accounts on: Twitter / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube @DCDAbuDhabi
Al Bawaba
09-07-2025
- Business
- Al Bawaba
UAEU and the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi Celebrate Graduation of the Third Cohort of the Social Care Professionals Capacity-Building Program
The United Arab Emirates University, represented by the College of Humanities, Social Sciences, and the Continuing Education Center, celebrated the graduation of the third cohort of the Social Care Professionals Capacity-Building Program. The ceremony was held in collaboration with the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi, represented by the Social Licensing and Regulatory Sector, at Hilton Yas Island Hotel in Abu Dhabi, in the presence of representatives from partner entities and faculty program reflects the strategic partnership between the university and the Department, and their shared commitment to developing specialized national talent and enhancing the quality and efficiency of social services in Abu Dhabi. The graduating cohort included 130 professionals from both government and private social sector institutions, enrolled in three specialized professional diplomas: Social Work Practice Skills, Non-Clinical Psychology, and School his speech during the ceremony, Professor Mohamed Bin Huwaiden, Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at UAEU, emphasized the program as a genuine investment in the Emirati individual, stating:'At UAEU, we believe that national development cannot be achieved without nurturing the human being from within. Our professional programs, including this one, aim to provide society with field-ready specialists aligned with the vision of our wise leadership, which places the individual as the nation's highest value and greatest asset.'He added: 'Human-centered professions—especially social work and psychology—are not a luxury, but a national necessity, equally vital as any scientific discipline.'Professor Bin Huwaiden also praised the fruitful partnership with the Department of Community Development, stating:'We are proud of our partnership with the Department, a conscious national partner that shares our belief that empowering professionals is key to empowering the community.'He extended his thanks to the Continuing Education Center at UAEU for their significant role in organizing and managing the program with high his side, Mr. Mubarak Al Ameri, Executive Director of the Social Licensing and Regulatory Sector at the Department of Community Development, explained that the program is part of the Department's efforts to qualify social care professionals according to the highest recognized professional standards. He stressed that developing human capital in the social sector is the cornerstone of building comprehensive and integrated social Ameri noted that participants were drawn from various institutions, including public schools, the Family Development Foundation, Family Care Authority, Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters, Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, the Abu Dhabi Vocational Education and Training Institute, and several private social sector is worth noting that since its launch in 2022, the program has graduated 111 participants in its first cohort and 42 in its second in 2023, bringing the total number of graduates to over 283 professionals to date. At the conclusion of the ceremony, certificates were distributed to graduates, followed by a group photo to commemorate this important milestone in their professional journey. Attendees praised the joint efforts of the university and the Department in offering high-quality programs that align with the UAE's aspirations for the social care sector and reflect its vision for human development and empowerment.
Zawya
08-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
UAEU and the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi celebrate graduation of the third cohort of the social care professionals capacity-building program
Abu Dhabi – The United Arab Emirates University, represented by the College of Humanities, Social Sciences, and the Continuing Education Center, celebrated the graduation of the third cohort of the Social Care Professionals Capacity-Building Program. The ceremony was held in collaboration with the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi, represented by the Social Licensing and Regulatory Sector, at Hilton Yas Island Hotel in Abu Dhabi, in the presence of representatives from partner entities and faculty members. This program reflects the strategic partnership between the university and the Department, and their shared commitment to developing specialized national talent and enhancing the quality and efficiency of social services in Abu Dhabi. The graduating cohort included 130 professionals from both government and private social sector institutions, enrolled in three specialized professional diplomas: Social Work Practice Skills, Non-Clinical Psychology, and School Counseling. In his speech during the ceremony, Professor Mohamed Bin Huwaiden, Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at UAEU, emphasized the program as a genuine investment in the Emirati individual, stating: 'At UAEU, we believe that national development cannot be achieved without nurturing the human being from within. Our professional programs, including this one, aim to provide society with field-ready specialists aligned with the vision of our wise leadership, which places the individual as the nation's highest value and greatest asset.' He added: 'Human-centered professions—especially social work and psychology—are not a luxury, but a national necessity, equally vital as any scientific discipline.' Professor Bin Huwaiden also praised the fruitful partnership with the Department of Community Development, stating: 'We are proud of our partnership with the Department, a conscious national partner that shares our belief that empowering professionals is key to empowering the community.' He extended his thanks to the Continuing Education Center at UAEU for their significant role in organizing and managing the program with high efficiency. From his side, Mr. Mubarak Al Ameri, Executive Director of the Social Licensing and Regulatory Sector at the Department of Community Development, explained that the program is part of the Department's efforts to qualify social care professionals according to the highest recognized professional standards. He stressed that developing human capital in the social sector is the cornerstone of building comprehensive and integrated social services. Al Ameri noted that participants were drawn from various institutions, including public schools, the Family Development Foundation, Family Care Authority, Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters, Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, the Abu Dhabi Vocational Education and Training Institute, and several private social sector institutions. It is worth noting that since its launch in 2022, the program has graduated 111 participants in its first cohort and 42 in its second in 2023, bringing the total number of graduates to over 283 professionals to date. At the conclusion of the ceremony, certificates were distributed to graduates, followed by a group photo to commemorate this important milestone in their professional journey. Attendees praised the joint efforts of the university and the Department in offering high-quality programs that align with the UAE's aspirations for the social care sector and reflect its vision for human development and empowerment. About the Department of Community Development The Department of Community Development - Abu Dhabi (DCD) was established in 2018 with the aim of regulating and controlling the social sector through legislation, policies, strategies, standards, and operational and executive systems. It aims to enhance the quality of life of the Abu Dhabi community and provide high-quality and efficient social services that meet the needs of all sectors of society. The department seeks to promote awareness and knowledge and find innovative social solutions to the most important social challenges and issues.
Zawya
12-06-2025
- General
- Zawya
DCD participates for the first time as part of the UAE delegation at the UN Conference of States Parties
Abu Dhabi – In line with its efforts to promote social development and strengthen Abu Dhabi's position as an inclusive city, the Department of Community Development (DCD) – Abu Dhabi participated for the first time as part of the United Arab Emirates delegation at the 18th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP-18), held at the United Nations headquarters in New York, with the participation of representatives from over 180 countries. This participation reflects DCD's role as the regulator of the social sector and the main driver of the empowerment and inclusion of People of Determination in Abu Dhabi, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Family and the UAE's Permanent Mission to the UN. It exemplifies a unified national approach that reflects the UAE's commitment to human rights and to building a cohesive and inclusive society. During the event, the Department presented Abu Dhabi's pioneering experience in improving the quality of life for People of Determination through the Abu Strategy for People of Determination. One of its key accelerator initiatives highlighted was the 'Disability Friendly City & Community Framework' which is currently being piloted on Yas Island in partnership with Aldar Properties, and in collaboration with strategic partners including the Department of Municipalities and Transport and the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority. The initiative aims to launch an 'Inclusive City Index' that can be applied globally. Since its inception, the Department has worked through such projects to provide an inclusive and empowering environment that enables all segments of society to actively participate in public life. This aligns with its mission to build a cohesive society where everyone enjoys equal opportunities for empowerment and support, and where everyone contributes effectively to the nation and the community. In this context, H.E. Dr. Layla Al Hyas, Executive Director- family care and child sector at DCD, affirmed that the Department's participation in COSP-18 embodies Abu Dhabi's commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable society, where cities are supportive environments for everyone without exception. She explained that this commitment has been translated into action through the pilot model on Yas Island, which reflects a vision for holistic urban transformation based on the needs of individuals and prioritizing quality of life in both urban and social planning. She added: 'We believe that effective social policies must be co-designed with the community and reflect its aspirations. That is why we are working on developing innovative indicators that promote evidence-based planning and contribute to more impactful programs. We also view People of Determination not merely as beneficiaries, but as true partners in shaping solutions and designing cities. Their active involvement in all stages of the framework's development reflects our belief that true empowerment begins with listening to their voices and integrating their visions into future policies and plans.'
