CDA Dubai’s ‘Proud of UAE’ enhances cultural cohesion

Under the patronage of the Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai and organised by Places of Worship, Dubai, a community initiative titled Proud of UAE was held, attended by Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of CDA. The event witnessed wide participation from community members, embodying the values of coexistence and tolerance that characterise UAE society. It presented a vivid reflection of the deep human connections that unite individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds in the Emirates. The event featured speeches, expressive messages and community activities that highlighted the spirit of solidarity of peoples and gratitude to the leadership, reaffirming the UAE as a global model for embracing diversity and strengthening social stability.

The initiative reflected the genuine appreciation and gratitude to the United Arab Emirates, its leadership, government and people and to the emirate of Dubai, which is hailed as a leading model in caring for people, ensuring their safety and stability, through the comprehensive support it provides to Emirati citizens and residents, and its continuous commitment to their security and wellbeing, particularly in light of the recent challenges faced by the country. CDA Director General Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid said that the Proud of UAE event was a living example of the strong social cohesion enjoyed by the UAE, mirroring the deep sense of gratitude residents feel towards a nation that embraces everyone and provides a safe and stable environment. She noted that the sincere expressions and messages of appreciation witnessed during the event, reflected the strength of the UAE model in building am integrated society founded on tolerance, coexistence, and mutual respect.

“The United Arab Emirates has proven, in all circumstances, that people are at the heart of development and its top priority, and that protecting society and strengthening its stability is a firmly established responsibility guided by a wise vision and a comprehensive humanitarian approach,” she said. “Such initiatives strengthen community bonds and reinforce a sense of belonging, in line with the objectives of the Dubai Social Agenda 33.” Dubai Social Agenda 33 represents Dubai Government’s comprehensive plan for its community until 2033. It aims to support Emirati families by protecting, empowering and enhancing various aspects of their lives, addressing areas such as housing, quality of life, identity and values, social cohesion, healthcare and future skills for the new generation.

The Proud of UAE initiative is part of CDA’s ongoing efforts to reinforce positive values and strengthen social cohesion, contributing to the building of a cohesive and flourishing society that places people at the heart of its priorities and enhances quality of life for its members. It also reflects the vital role of public welfare associations, including Places of Worship, in supporting social development and promoting a culture of shared responsibility in an environment grounded in mutual respect and appreciation, strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading global model for human coexistence. CDA continues, through the empowerment and regulation of sister organisations, to support social development objectives and enhance community services through impactful initiatives that foster partnerships and ensure the sustainability of positive outcomes.

CDA was founded by a decree of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in 2008. It is responsible for setting up and developing a framework for social development, and aims to achieve the goals outlined in the Dubai Strategic Plans. CDA is in charge for the overall supervision to achieve social sector outputs, and provide the provisions of social services in order to create an integrated and efficient management system for the development of social services in the emirate. It includes the preparation, execution, and supervision of comprehensive strategic plans, and proposing legislation related to social services, to improve the outputs of the social development sector.

The core strategic objectives of CDA are aimed at involving the stakeholders and enhancing the relationships with them; it includes UAE nationals and residents, government authorities, business partners and volunteers. The objectives also include fund diversifying, enhancing productivity and efficiency, excellence in operations and aligning the organisational structure to the main projects and programmes. It focuses on all aspects of community development in Dubai in a sustainable, holistic, innovative, and inclusive manner, through strong partnerships with government, private, and non-profit sectors and is committed to empowering individuals, strengthening families, and fostering community belonging, with a special focus on children of determination, senior citizens, orphans, juveniles, and other vulnerable groups. CDA promotes volunteering and civic participation through programmes that empower youth and residents to contribute to Dubai’s social fabric and its mission aligns with Dubai Social Agenda 2033 — promoting national identity, supporting family and social cohesion.