President Sheikh Mohamed declares 2025 as Year of Community

Sheikh Mohamed encourages ‘all those who call the UAE their home’ to help make country an ‘inspiring model of progress and prosperity’

President Sheikh Mohamed announced the national initiative, which will be run under the slogan 'Hand in Hand'. Chris Whiteoak / The National

President Sheikh Mohamed on Monday declared 2025 as the Year of Community, in support of a national drive to promote unity and inclusion across society.

In a post on X, Sheikh Mohamed urged "all those who call the UAE home" to help to contribute towards "improving your community and ensuring that our nation remains an inspiring model of progress and prosperity".

Under the slogan "Hand in Hand", the national initiative reflects the leadership’s vision to foster a united and empowered community.

"Hand in hand, we will work to strengthen social bonds, foster shared responsibility, and unlock potential for inclusive and sustainable growth," Sheikh Mohamed wrote.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, also posted a message on X to mark the announcement. He said the move "highlights our priorities for the future: strengthening social bonds and fostering unity across society".

Sheikh Mohammed added that the "foundation of our nation’s strength lies in a united community, where individuals are connected, and care is extended to each other. A strong community thrives on fortified families, and lays the groundwork for a brighter future for generations to come".

The initiative is to be overseen by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed, Deputy Chairperson of the Presidential Court for National Projects.

Several events will be announced this year and citizens and residents will be encouraged to contribute to society through community service, volunteering and initiatives, state news agency Wam reported. The public will also be urged to share their ideas to build social bonds, foster community progress and celebrate the cultural diversity that defines the UAE.

Last November, Sheikh Mansour welcomed a new community initiative package worth Dh500 million ($136 million) aimed at "enhancing quality of life, promoting sustainable development, achieving social stability and empowering all community members". It organised community councils to provide social services across the UAE.

“Investing in our people is central to our comprehensive sustainable development strategy and to strengthening the community's role as a cornerstone of the UAE's progress," Sheikh Mansour had said at the launch. “These community initiatives reflect our leadership's vision for sustainable development and social well-being, underscoring our commitment to ensuring a high quality of life for all."