The Year of Community in the UAE: A call for collective action
The UAE’s designation of this year as the Year of Community is a powerful reminder that true progress is not measured solely by economic success but by the strength of our collective bonds. Throughout my career in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and community-driven initiatives, I have witnessed how businesses, institutions, and individuals can drive meaningful social change.
Philanthropy and social responsibility are not new concepts in the UAE. They were embedded in our nation’s DNA by our founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose vision of generosity and humanitarianism laid the foundation for a culture of giving. His belief that a strong nation is built on the well-being of its people continues to inspire us today.
The Year of Community is not just a symbolic gesture — it is an opportunity for each of us to reflect on our role in shaping a more inclusive, compassionate, and sustainable future. It is a time to move beyond passive support and take meaningful action to uplift society, whether through education, research, or social welfare initiatives.
Philanthropy in the UAE: From tradition to strategic impact
The UAE has long been a global leader in philanthropy, but today, we must move beyond traditional charitable giving and adopt a more strategic approach. The country’s philanthropic ecosystem has evolved significantly, with initiatives like The Big Heart Foundation in Sharjah, which provides education, healthcare, and emergency relief to vulnerable communities. These efforts reflect a shift from short-term aid to long-term solutions that empower individuals and build resilience.
Similarly, Dubai Cares has transformed education access in developing countries, while the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation continues to support research and innovation. These initiatives highlight the UAE’s commitment to sustainable development, aligning with global goals such as the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
As someone who has worked extensively in CSR and innovation-driven initiatives, I have seen firsthand how targeted investments in education and research can yield exponential benefits. It is not enough to donate — we must ensure that our contributions lead to systemic change.
CSR as a catalyst for education and research
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work has been engaging with businesses to align their CSR strategies with national development goals. Education and research are two areas where CSR can have a profound impact, yet many companies still overlook their potential.
Education is a powerful tool for social mobility and economic growth. Across the UAE, CSR programs have successfully provided scholarships, vocational training, and mentorship opportunities. These initiatives do more than just help individuals — they equip our youth with the skills needed to drive innovation and build a knowledge-based economy.
Research and development (R&D) also play a crucial role in the UAE’s long-term vision. Over the years, I have worked on initiatives that bridge the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that businesses actively support scientific advancements. When companies invest in R&D, they are not just innovating for their own benefit — they are contributing to national progress.
Collaboration: The key to meaningful CSR
If there is one lesson I have learned, it is that no single entity — government, business, or individual — can create change alone. True impact comes from collaboration. We see this in successful public-private partnerships, such as the UAE’s sustainability programmes, where companies, universities, and policymakers work together to address environmental and economic challenges.
The Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP), for example, fosters collaboration between businesses and academia to drive technological advancement. By supporting research in fields like renewable energy, healthcare, and artificial intelligence, such initiatives demonstrate how CSR can fuel innovation while addressing societal needs.
Another remarkable example is the Abu Dhabi CSR Strategy, which encourages businesses to integrate social responsibility into their core operations, ensuring that corporate efforts align with the country’s broader social and economic objectives.
A call to action: Making the Year of Community count
The Year of Community is not just about government-led initiatives. It is about each of us recognizing our role in building a better society. Whether you are a business leader, an entrepreneur, or simply a concerned citizen, there is always something you can do.
>> Businesses should align their CSR efforts with real community needs. Investing in education, research, and sustainability creates lasting change.
>> Entrepreneurs and professionals can contribute their time and expertise. Mentoring young talent or supporting social enterprises can have a profound impact.
>> Individuals must embrace the spirit of volunteerism and engagement. Change begins with personal action, whether through community service, advocacy, or everyday kindness.
Throughout my career, I have seen that real change happens when people stop waiting for others to act and take responsibility themselves. This is what the Year of Community is about — not just celebrating our values, but actively living them.
As we move forward, I urge everyone to reflect on what they can do to contribute. Whether through business, education, innovation, or simple acts of generosity, each of us has the power to make a difference. The strength of a community is not measured by words but by actions. Let’s make this year count.
Hussain Al Mahmoudi is the Chief Executive Officer of the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTI Park)