UAE Year of Award honours 5 families, organisations for strengthening national fabric

The UAE Year Of Award has announced five winners in its inaugural edition, recognising individuals, families and organisations for their efforts to strengthen family bonds and promote family values across the country.

Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, presented the awards during the UAE Government Annual Meetings in Abu Dhabi on November 9, in collaboration with the Ministry of Family.

The award was introduced under the directives of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. It aims to recognise meaningful contributions that reflect the values of each annual UAE Year Of theme.

UAE Year Of Award Recognises Contributions to Family Development

Established as a national recognition platform, the UAE Year Of Award celebrates individuals and organisations working to strengthen families and create positive social impact.

The award focuses on three key pillars:

Impact: Recognising initiatives that create meaningful changes in society.

Sustainability: Highlighting contributions that deliver long-term benefits to families and communities.

Inspiration: Celebrating stories and achievements that encourage others to make a positive difference.

The inaugural edition recognised five winners whose work has supported family stability, social development and stronger community relationships.

Meet the Five Winners of the UAE Year Of Award

The award recognised three families, one government organisation, one private-sector organisation and an individual for their contributions to family development.

1. Salem Obaid Al Dhaheri Family – Al Ain

The Salem Obaid Al Dhaheri Family was recognised for promoting education, responsibility and generosity across generations.

Family members have made contributions in several fields, including diplomacy, medicine, aviation, engineering, education, scientific research, government service, environmental protection and business.

Their achievements reflect a strong commitment to family values and community development.

2. Mohammed Yousuf Al Rais Family – Sharjah

The Mohammed Yousuf Al Rais Family received recognition for launching 'Sawainaha', a series that shares everyday family experiences and parenting lessons.

The initiative has reached thousands of families across the UAE, offering practical insights into parenting, family relationships and everyday challenges.

3. Community Development Authority – Dubai

Dubai's Community Development Authority was honoured for its efforts to support Emirati families through the 'Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme'.

One of its key initiatives, 'Dubai Weddings', has helped more than 1,000 families reduce wedding expenses and prepare for marriage.

The programme aims to make marriage more accessible while supporting family stability and encouraging stronger social connections.

4. Majid Al Futtaim Group – City Centre Mirdif

Majid Al Futtaim Group was recognised for transforming City Centre Mirdif into a more family-friendly shopping and lifestyle destination.

The organisation introduced enhanced facilities and tailored family activities to improve the overall experience for visitors.

The initiative highlights how private-sector organisations can contribute to creating welcoming spaces that support families and communities.

5. Meera Mubarak Al Ketbi – Al Dhaid, Sharjah

Meera Mubarak Al Ketbi was recognised for establishing 'Khayrat Al Dhaid', an initiative that helps women in her community turn traditional skills and locally made products into income-generating opportunities.

The initiative supports women's economic participation and helps families build more sustainable sources of income while preserving traditional skills.

UAE Ministry of Family Highlights Importance of Family Values

Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, UAE Minister of Family, said the award recognises national contributions that translate the UAE's vision and priorities into meaningful achievements across society.

She highlighted the importance of showcasing inspiring family stories and positive examples of strong relationships, mutual understanding and shared values.

According to the minister, these contributions play an important role in strengthening family stability and social cohesion across the country.

UAE Year Of Award Aims to Inspire More Community Initiatives

Rauda Al Falasi, Project Lead of the UAE Year Of Initiative, said the award was established to recognise individuals and organisations that bring the values of the UAE Year Of theme to life through their work.

She added that highlighting their achievements would help demonstrate their positive impact on communities and encourage more people to develop initiatives that support families.

The inaugural awards reflect the UAE's continued focus on family development, social responsibility and community well-being, while celebrating those making meaningful contributions to the country's future.