Dubai recognises 54 partners driving social development and sustainable community impact
Partnerships deliver measurable results through empowerment and innovation programmes
DUBAI – The Dubai Community Development Authority (CDA) has honoured 54 strategic partners from government entities, the private sector and non-benefit organisations for their contributions to Dubai’s social development goals.
Held at Nad Al Sheba Majlis under the theme “Our Partners for a Sustainable Community Impact”, the ceremony recognised organisations that have supported initiatives benefiting individuals, families and communities across the emirate. The recognition highlighted the importance of collaboration between different sectors in building sustainable social programmes and strengthening Dubai’s model of community development.
The event reflected the CDA’s continued efforts to expand institutional partnerships, enhance cooperation across sectors and create a more integrated social ecosystem capable of responding to evolving community needs. Through these collaborations, various programmes and services have been developed to support empowerment, inclusion, quality of life and social cohesion.
Strategic partnerships
Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai, said strategic partnerships represent one of the key pillars for advancing the social sector and strengthening its ability to deliver sustainable impact.
She highlighted that cooperation between entities, combined with shared expertise and resources, helps enhance the sector’s readiness to address societal changes and anticipate future requirements. According to Her Excellency, aligning efforts between organisations plays a vital role in supporting Dubai’s wider social development journey and ensuring that initiatives achieve meaningful outcomes.
“This recognition comes as an expression of our appreciation for our partners who have played an active role in supporting the emirate’s social priorities and have contributed to the achievement of numerous initiatives and accomplishments that have generated a tangible positive impact on society,” she said.
She added that successful social work depends on an integrated system that brings together capabilities, knowledge and resources through a shared vision focused on placing people at the centre of development objectives.
She further noted that guided by the objectives of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, and within the framework of the Dubai Performance (Dubai-it) approach launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the CDA continues to develop innovative cooperation models with strategic partners.
These efforts aim to expand social impact, strengthen opportunities for empowerment and inclusion, enhance social cohesion, and support Dubai’s position as a leading global example in social development and quality of life.
Measurable impact
Strategic partnerships have contributed to a wide range of programmes delivering tangible results across different areas of community development.
The Dubai Empowerment Programme supported the financial independence of 5,122 Emirati citizens by helping facilitate 7,600 employment opportunities in collaboration with more than 400 entities. The Dubai Weddings Programme also contributed to the establishment of 1,200 new Emirati families, recording a satisfaction rate of 95%.
In support of People of Determination, 150 therapeutic horse-riding sessions were delivered, benefiting 23 individuals. Meanwhile, the “Senior Citizens” track under the Family Digital Balance Initiative supported more than 200 participants, helping enhance their quality of life through targeted programmes.
The achievements demonstrate how collaboration between different organisations has helped transform social initiatives into sustainable development outcomes, creating wider benefits for individuals, families and the community.
Partner network
The recognition covered four main categories reflecting the diverse areas of cooperation between the CDA and its partners.
The Community Development Partners category included the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai, Dubai Municipality, Ministry of Community Empowerment, Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment, Dubai Courts, Dubai Police General Headquarters, Department of Finance, Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Health, Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation, Public Prosecution in Dubai, and Dubai Health Authority.
The Community Impact Partners category recognised organisations including the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Dubai Government Human Resources Department – Human Resources Development Council, Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, Erada Center for Treatment and Rehabilitation, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), Fareej Dubai, Dubai Holding Group, Dubai Land Department, Dubai Media Incorporated, Dubai Customs, Ministry of Family, Dubai Foundation for Women and Children, and Ministry of Interior – “Fazaa”.
The Knowledge and Capacity Building Partners category included Seha Clinics, Dubai Civil Defence, Knowledge and Human Development Authority, Dubai Autism Center, University of Sharjah, Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, Ministry of Education, The Supreme Legislation Committee in Dubai, Emirates Islamic Bank, British University in Dubai, University of Birmingham Dubai, and Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government.
The Innovation and Digital Transformation Partners category included the General Pension and Social Security Authority, Dubai Airports, Maseer Initiatives, Emarat EV Charging Stations Company (UAEV), Netways, Help AG, Huawei, Digital Dubai Authority, Dubai Hub Centre, and Dubai Culture and Arts Authority.
These organisations were recognised for their role in using innovation and digital solutions to enhance services, improve operational efficiency and strengthen customer experiences.
The ceremony forms part of the CDA’s ongoing commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships and expanding collaboration with different entities. The initiative supports the development of a more connected and prosperous society while contributing to the objectives of the Dubai Social Agenda 33 and Dubai’s wider sustainable development priorities.