Mansour bin Zayed: Volunteering ecosystem drives UAE human devt.

Strengthening social cohesion and shared responsibility

“Reflecting the nation’s advanced standing in global indicators of giving and community engagement, the Ecosystem represents a major step towards strengthening social cohesion and shared responsibility, while deepening partnerships between government, private sectors, public-benefit institutions, and society at large,” His Highness Sheikh Mansour added.

Volunteerism as a pillar of sustainable development

Sheikh Mansour stressed that the UAE’s volunteering and community engagement framework encapsulates the leadership’s vision of sustainable development built around human potential. The UAE consistently ranks among the leading nations in the World Giving Index, with volunteerism forming an intrinsic part of the Emirati identity since the Union’s founding—a vital pillar for comprehensive development and a source of societal resilience.

A model of unity and cooperation

He emphasised that Emirati society offers an exemplary model of giving and responsibility. The launch of this Ecosystem marks a milestone in deepening solidarity, enhancing public-private partnerships, and empowering all sectors of society to contribute to a cohesive community for current and future generations.

Human-centered development

His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated that the UAE’s success is rooted in its people, the true fulcrum and objective of development. President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has ensured that Emirati society is defined by goodwill, philanthropy, and solidarity, forming the foundation for security, stability, and prosperity.

Encouraging active participation

Sheikh Abdullah noted that the Ecosystem translates the leadership’s belief that every individual carries values that nurture awareness, responsibility, and contribution to national progress. It opens doors for citizens and residents to actively serve the nation, fostering volunteerism as a core societal value and instilling cooperation, altruism, and belonging in future generations.

Empowering people for sustainable development

His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, said the launch continues the UAE’s approach of empowering its people to support comprehensive and sustainable development. He emphasised that the nation seeks to increase positive social participation and activate public-benefit institutions for tangible impact.

Preserving Emirati social values

Her Highness Sheikha Maryam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairperson of the Education and Human and Community Development Council, stated that the launch reaffirms that Emirati social values—generosity, solidarity, and responsibility—are rooted in national cohesion and heritage. She highlighted the importance of instilling these values in children and youth to cultivate a lifelong commitment to philanthropy and community engagement.

A platform for collective action

Shamma bint Suhail Faris Al Mazrui, Minister of Community Development, described the Ecosystem as a transformative step reflecting confidence in society’s potential. It provides a platform for individuals to turn positive ideas into impactful initiatives, strengthening the vision of human-centered development and promoting genuine partnership between government and society.

Institutionalising volunteerism

Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future and Chairwoman of the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources, highlighted the 'Barakatna' initiative as a key contribution to the national volunteering system. The initiative institutionalises volunteerism, encourages federal employees to participate, and supports the UAE’s goal of ranking among the top nations in the World Giving Index.