Abu Dhabi's DCD Organises 2025 Social Sector Strategic Retreat To Enhance Community Services

The Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi (DCD) recently held the 2025 Social Sector Strategic Retreat. This event aimed to discuss future social services and sustainable community development. Leaders and stakeholders gathered at Nabd Al Falah, a new community hub in Al-Falah, to review social sector progress and set priorities for the coming year.

Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of DCD, attended alongside senior officials and key figures from the social sector. The retreat included diverse members of the Abu Dhabi community, representing various nationalities and age groups. This inclusive participation reflects DCD’s commitment to co-creating solutions with the community.

Discussions at the retreat highlighted the importance of integrating social services with national objectives. The aim is to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s vision for a prosperous society. Interactive workshops and panel discussions showcased success stories in family formation, early childhood development, and support for People of Determination.

Participants identified emerging challenges and formulated innovative solutions to enhance service delivery. The retreat emphasised developing integrated social services that are sustainable and responsive to community needs.

Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili stated, "The strategic retreats for the social sector represent an essential component of our ongoing efforts to advance Abu Dhabi’s vision of a thriving and inclusive society. Our wise leadership places people at the heart of development, ensuring that every individual enjoys a dignified and high-quality life."

He stressed the need for collaboration between government entities, private institutions, and third-sector organisations. This cooperation is crucial for driving meaningful social impact and addressing societal changes proactively.

Enhancing Social Cohesion

The retreat explored ways to strengthen social cohesion by fostering solidarity among all societal segments. Discussions focused on leveraging technology and integrating forward-thinking policies to ensure adaptive, resilient, and inclusive social services.

Nabd Al Falah served as an interactive space for community engagement during the retreat. By hosting it there, DCD reaffirmed its dedication to creating environments that encourage dialogue and collective action.

Setting Priorities for Community Needs

Interactive brainstorming workshops were organised to discuss this year’s social priorities. The goal was to develop initiatives reflecting these priorities while addressing actual community needs aligned with the Year of the Community objectives.

The retreat concluded with an open discussion session summarising key takeaways. A roadmap was outlined for Abu Dhabi’s next phase of social sector development, ensuring continued progress in enhancing community well-being.

With inputs from WAM