Abu Dhabi: The UAE Year Of initiative has reached a significant milestone, marking 10 years of fostering national unity and societal impact through collective action. Launched in 2015, this initiative has annually introduced themes that aim to reinforce national values, strengthen social bonds, and inspire a shared vision for a more inclusive future.
According to Emirates News Agency, the UAE Year Of initiative has consistently encouraged meaningful engagement across various sectors through storytelling, community-driven initiatives, and cross-sector partnerships. Since its inception, these annual themes have not only shaped societal values but also driven sustainability and social impact in the realms of environmental, health, social, and economic spheres.
The journey began in 2015 with the Year of Innovation, which focused on fostering innovation and cutting-edge research. This was followed by the Year of Reading in 2016, aimed at cultivating knowledge and lifelong learning. The Year of Giving in 2017 and the Year of Zayed in 2018 further emphasized philanthropy, social responsibility, and the UAE’s founding father’s vision, respectively.
The initiative continued to grow with the Year of Tolerance in 2019, promoting cultural understanding and inclusivity. In 2020, the Year of Preparation for the Next 50 laid the groundwork for the UAE’s future, succeeded by the Year of the 50th in 2021, celebrating the nation’s golden jubilee. Recently, 2023 and 2024 have been marked as the Year of Sustainability, driving efforts toward environmental and social responsibility.
Looking forward, 2025 has been declared the Year of Community by President His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This new theme emphasizes the importance of community bonds, collective skill development, and community-driven initiatives in building a more united nation.
Rauda Al Falasi, Project Lead at the Year of Community, highlighted the initiative’s significance, stating that it reflects collective aspirations and shapes societal evolution. Al Falasi stressed the importance of nurturing bonds and supporting one another to ensure a thriving future for all.
Under the slogan “hand-in-hand,” the Year of Community calls upon families, government entities, private organizations, non-profits, and individuals to actively participate in creating a more inclusive and connected UAE. The initiative aims to inspire empowerment through skill exchange, ideas, and knowledge, fostering an environment conducive to long-term progress.
Al Falasi invited all sectors to join the Year Of Community, emphasizing the roles of government entities, the private sector, and non-profits in fostering social connections, encouraging participation, and driving community-led initiatives. By volunteering and supporting local causes, the public can contribute to an inclusive environment within their communities.
The Partner’s Toolkit for the Public, Private, and Non-profit Organisations (Third Sector) is available on the official Year of Community website to support stakeholders in aligning their efforts with this year’s theme.