‘UAE Year Of’ Marks 10 Years of Collective Action and Impact

For the past decade, the UAE Year Of initiative has brought the nation together under a shared vision—fostering national values, strengthening social bonds, and sparking collective momentum. Each year, a distinct theme inspires individuals, organisations, and institutions to shape a thriving and more inclusive future.
Through storytelling, community-driven initiatives, and cross-sector partnerships, the UAE Year Of encourages all who call the UAE home to engage meaningfully—raising awareness, catalysing change, and advancing impact across environmental, health, social, and economic spheres.

Since its inception in 2015, the UAE Year Of themes have shaped societal values, encouraged sustainability, and driven social impact:
2015: Year of Innovation – Fostering innovation and cutting-edge research.
2016: Year of Reading – Cultivating knowledge and lifelong learning.
2017: Year of Giving – Encouraging philanthropy and social responsibility.
2018: Year of Zayed – Honouring the UAE’s founding father’s vision.
2019: Year of Tolerance– Promoting cultural understanding and inclusivity.
2020: Year of Preparation for the Next 50 – Laying the foundation for the UAE’s future.
2021: Year of the 50th – Celebrating the UAE’s golden jubilee.
2023 & 2024: Year of Sustainability – Driving environmental and social responsibility and action.

2025 was declared the Year of Community by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, highlighting the essential role of community bonds, collective skill development and community-driven initiatives in building a more inclusive and united nation.

Step into the world of Estidama Craft, a unique interactive realm designed to encourage children to learn about sustainability through an immersive and interactive gaming experience. Inspired by the UAE’s beautiful natural landscape and biodiversity, Estidama Craft guides players into a world of sustainable exploration and behavioural change which also unfolds as an educational iteration that is complemented by five curated lesson plans, designed to transform each gaming session into an educational journey on sustainability.
 

Welcome to Estidama Craft: An Educational Video Game That Encourages Sustainable Behaviors, Inspired by UAE’s natural landscape.

Al Falasi also underscored the importance of the Year of Community, highlighting, “Our greatest strength lies in the bonds we nurture, the support we extend to one another, and the contributions we make toward a thriving future for all.”
2025: UAE Year of Community

Under the slogan hand-in-hand, the Year of Community is a call to action for all sectors of society—families, government entities, private organisations, non-profit organisations “third sector” and individuals—to play an active role in shaping a more inclusive and connected UAE.

The initiative encourages a renewed connection with the nation’s cultural heritage, nurturing deeper family connections and creating inclusive spaces that foster a sense of belonging and collective spirit. It also encourages meaningful participation through initiatives that enable individuals and organisations to actively contribute—whether by volunteering their time, mentoring others, or leading community-driven projects that create lasting impact. This spirit of shared responsibility reinforces the value of collective action in building a more responsible and engaged society.

In addition, the Year of Community aims to inspire a culture of empowerment—one where people are encouraged to support one another’s growth through the exchange of skills, ideas, and knowledge. By fostering opportunities for learning and collaboration, the initiative aims to cultivate an environment where everyone feels inspired and supported to contribute to long-term, inclusive progress.

How To Get Involved

Al Falasi highlighted the invitation to all sectors to participate with the Year Of Community. "The success of the Year of Community depends on collective action. Government entities have the power to foster social connections and encourage public participation, while the private sector can strengthen corporate social responsibility and empower employees to volunteer, creating opportunities for skill development.”

Emphasising the role of non-profit organisations and the public, Al Falasi added “Nonprofit organisations also play a crucial role in driving community-led initiatives, connecting people through shared causes, and advocating for meaningful social impact. By volunteering and supporting local causes, the public can foster an inclusive environment within homes and their neighbourhoods.” “Every sector has a role to play—by working together, we can build a more connected, engaged, and thriving society.”

The Partner’s Toolkit for the Public, Private, and Nonprofit Organisations (Third Sector) are available on the official Year of Community website to provide support for stakeholders in aligning their initiatives and activations with this year’s theme.
For updates and opportunities to get involved, visit the official social media pages @UAEYearOf and the official website www.UAEYearOf.ae