Dubai Youth Retreat Empowers Emirati Youth To Shape UAE's Future With Innovation
The Dubai Youth Retreat, organised by the Dubai Youth Council, took place under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority. The event saw participation from prominent figures across various sectors, including Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs; Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications; and Abdullah Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary-General of Dubai Executive Council.
The retreat aimed to bolster youth capabilities in leadership, creativity, economy, and society. It encouraged them to devise innovative solutions for future societal challenges. Held at the Etihad Museum, it provided a strategic platform for communication between youth and leaders from Dubai's government departments and institutions.
H.H. Sheikha Latifa highlighted that the retreat aligns with Dubai’s forward-looking approach to fostering creativity and innovation. She stated, "This retreat is an investment in tomorrow, and a stepping stone towards a bright and sustainable future, driven by the ambitions of our youth." She emphasised the importance of building genuine partnerships between youth and decision-makers across various sectors.
Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi remarked on the significance of investing in youth energies and guiding them towards innovation. He said, "Youth are the foundation of development and the cornerstone for building a prosperous and sustainable future." He noted that the retreat reinforced leadership values among Emirati youth.
Hala Badri stressed the necessity of empowering youth to turn their dreams into reality. She said, "Youth are the hope of the present and future... Our wise leadership has believed in the importance of investing in them." Badri praised the retreat for fostering creativity and excellence among young people.
The retreat included brainstorming sessions and interactive workshops addressing themes like economy, innovation, military sector, space exploration, values, culture, and community service. These sessions aimed to equip youth with skills to face future challenges.
Strategic Outcomes
Hassan Sabt, President of the Dubai Youth Council, described the retreat as a pioneering step towards enhancing youth roles in development and innovation. He said it created an interactive environment for youth to connect with leaders directly. Sabt added that this initiative is part of a series aimed at transforming Dubai into a global centre for innovation.
The event concluded with key outcomes such as launching six dialogue platforms for young people to discuss various issues. Reports showcased innovative ideas contributing to Dubai's progress. Channels were activated for talent transfer and knowledge exchange between youth and experts across different fields.
The retreat's programme also focused on preparing youth capable of leadership within military sectors. Participants discussed ways to inspire loyalty and responsibility among young people while raising awareness about national security.
Additionally, discussions underlined the importance of engaging youth in scientific research related to space exploration. This theme aimed at encouraging participation in shaping the future through technological advancements.
The forum promoted experience exchange aligning with Dubai’s vision to invest in its youth. It prepared them for future roles while actively involving them in shaping societal progress.
This initiative reflects efforts that began with previous retreats since 2016. Each event has contributed significantly towards achieving sustainable development goals by providing clear visions for youth futures.
The National Youth Agenda 2031 was launched during this retreat aiming at positioning Emirati youth as leading models globally in thought values contributions towards economic social development national responsibility.
With inputs from WAM


