Public encouraged to nominate selfless individuals for Abu Dhabi Awards

The awards pay tribute to people who have sought to build a better emirate, whether they reside in the UAE or live elsewhere

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - Fatima Al Kaabi, previous recipient of the award at the launch of the Abu Dhabi Awards 2019 at Warehouse 421. Khushnum Bhandari for The National
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Residents of the UAE's capital have been encouraged to nominate an unsung hero for the Abu Dhabi Awards.

Speaking at a majlis held in the emirate on Tuesday, Eisa Al Subousi, a member of the organising committee, told attendees that, because the awards are nomination-driven not voting-based, one nomination is enough to make a difference.

“Absolutely any individual who has positively contributed towards the emirate and community of Abu Dhabi is eligible for an Abu Dhabi Award, regardless of their age, gender, nationality or place of residency. Even those who have died can be awarded, as their legacy of good deeds remains with us long after they are gone,” he said.

The awards pay tribute to people who have sought to build a better emirate, whether they reside in the UAE or live elsewhere.

Previous winners include an American doctor, Emirati generals, a French photographer and even a Canadian schoolboy. Cameron Oliver, 12, was praised in 2008 for raising awareness about the plight of camels that swallow discarded plastic.

People can visit the website to make a nomination until December 31 and any good deed – big or small – will be considered.

First held in 2005, the awards now take place every two years. Eighty people of 16 nationalities have received them so far.

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, will honour the winners at the ceremony, set for early next year.