Ministry of Community Empowerment Organizes an Open Meeting with Nonprofit Organizations in the UAE
Under the Theme: "Partners in the Empowerment Journey"

Dubai – Ministry of Community Empowerment – February 2025:
The Ministry of Community Empowerment organized an open meeting with the Chairpersons of Nonprofit Organizations under the theme "Partners in the Empowerment Journey." The event, held in conjunction with the Year of Community 2025, aimed to highlight the vital role of Nonprofit Organizations in supporting development and community empowerment in the UAE. It also sought to explore ways to activate their role, enhance shared responsibility, and strengthen social cohesion. The meeting was attended by H.E. Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Community Empowerment; H.E. Aisha Yousuf, Undersecretary of the Ministry; along with several officials.

Bringing together a distinguished group of change leaders and future-makers in the Nonprofit sector, the meeting aligned with the ministry’s vision of empowering the third sector as a fundamental pillar and strategic partner in the community development system. It aimed to reinforce its position and readiness as a pioneering sector with advanced, future-driven capabilities. The event also served as a platform for continuous engagement with the leadership and members of Nonprofit Organizations, fostering partnerships to chart a roadmap toward a more empowered and impactful future. The increasing significance of these organizations aligns with the UAE’s remarkable growth, excellence, and competitiveness across various sectors.

Hosted at the Museum of the Future in Dubai, the meeting addressed several key topics, including challenges and opportunities in the sector, proposals for enhancing the institutional work environment, and strategies to improve service efficiency. It also discussed ways to strengthen effective partnerships between relevant stakeholders, the importance of regulatory oversight to ensure transparency and accountability, and the role of governance in establishing robust institutional frameworks.

Mr. Mohammed Naqi, Director of the Licensing Department, emphasized that the ministry is committed to regulating and empowering the third sector while activating the role of Nonprofit Organizations to drive the UAE’s development agenda. This is achieved through proposing, formulating, and implementing policies, strategies, and regulations governing the sector, as well as setting standards, conditions, and procedures for licensing and accreditation. The ministry also oversees the issuance of licenses, supervision, impact assessment, and the evaluation of these organizations' contributions to economic and social development. Additionally, the ministry is dedicated to ensuring accountability and integrity within Nonprofit Organizations and implementing initiatives to empower them, build their capacities, and provide financial and technical support in alignment with national priorities.