Dubai: In conjunction with International Youth Day, observed annually on August 12, the Dubai Youth Council hosted the 'Dubai Youth Lab' in collaboration with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority Youth Council.
According to Emirates News Agency, the event was attended by prominent figures such as Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs; Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister for Foreign Trade; Abdulla Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai; Marwan bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality; Aisha Miran, Director General of KHDA; Mohammed Ali Rashid Lootah, Director General of Dubai Chambers; HE Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health; and Eman bin Khatem, CEO of the Policies and Programmes Sector at the Dubai Government Human Resources Department. More than 60 young men and women from various government, semi-government, and private entities also participated in the event.
The 'Dubai Youth Lab' was held at The Executive Council's General Secretariat headquarters. The initiative aimed to activate the role of youth by leveraging their skills and creative energy to develop solutions and ideas that advance government initiatives and strengthen vital sectors across the UAE. The immersive format of the event replicated the government decision-making environment, blending empowerment, innovation, and real-world challenge analysis.
Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi emphasized that celebrating International Youth Day embodies the leadership's vision to support and empower youth by creating environments that turn their energy into tangible achievements. He highlighted that youth are the foundation of comprehensive development and true partners in shaping the nation's future. Today's investment in their capabilities is a strategic one, reflecting leadership's trust in their role in safeguarding national security and stability.
He added that the Dubai Youth Lab serves as a national initiative bringing together creative young minds with inspiring leaders and decision-makers. It provides a dynamic platform for youth to present ideas and craft practical solutions to future challenges, modeling collective action and sustained dialogue with youth.
Abdulla Al Basti stated that under the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the guidance of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai has established itself as a global city that empowers youth by building their capabilities and placing them in leadership roles. The Dubai Youth Lab is part of an integrated ecosystem that unites government entities, economic sectors, and youth organizations to equip young people with leadership skills and strategic opportunities.
The event began with opening remarks from leaders, followed by the division of participants into working groups. Each group received a 'vital file' based on a real government challenge, analyzed its root causes, and developed comprehensive solutions. These solutions were presented to a judging panel of experts and decision-makers and were evaluated on innovation, feasibility, and alignment with national priorities.
Aisha Miran noted that such experiences demonstrate the maturity and readiness of Dubai's youth. She emphasized that the event is a genuine workshop where youth energy meets Dubai's strategic vision, producing actionable concepts that can enhance quality of life and advance sustainability and digital transformation.
Reem Al Falasi, President of the Dubai Youth Council, stated that the Dubai Youth Lab reflects the emirate's vision of empowering young minds to shape their own future. The event enhances understanding of Dubai's decision-making processes and fosters direct communication between youth and leadership.
The six participating groups tackled priority community issues such as the future of education, mental health, employment, aligning education with labor market needs, training culture, and empowering non-university graduates. The Lab's outputs will be documented, analyzed, and submitted to relevant authorities to inform future programs and policies.