DCD Abu Dhabi Urges Entities To Join Damj Award Promoting Inclusion For People Of Determination

The Abu Dhabi Department of Community Development (DCD Abu Dhabi) has urged government bodies, private companies, and third-sector organisations in Abu Dhabi to engage in the Abu Dhabi Excellence Award for the Inclusion of People of Determination, known as "Damj." This award aims to promote inclusive policies and practices while recognising and rewarding efforts in this area.

Dr. Layla Abdulaziz Al Hyas, Executive Director of the Family and Child Welfare Sector at DCD, stated that extending the submission deadline to 31st October 2025 reflects their dedication to allowing more entities to apply. This extension provides additional time for participants to showcase their commitment to inclusion.

The award encourages organisations to adopt innovative solutions that improve the quality of life for all community members. It serves as a tool to measure progress in People of Determination (POD) inclusion, identify challenges, and promote sustainable practices. The initiative aligns with the Year of Community 2025 and Abu Dhabi’s Strategy for POD.

Dr. Al Hyas emphasised that the award not only acknowledges exceptional practices but also helps identify areas needing improvement. By doing so, it fosters a culture of comprehensive inclusion across various sectors in Abu Dhabi.

To participate, entities must submit their applications through the award’s website, damj.gov.ae. The process involves creating an account, completing a nomination form, and attaching necessary documents. Once notified of acceptance, applicants have three working days to finalise their submissions.

Applications are deemed complete only when both nomination and participation forms are accepted by the system. This ensures that all entries meet the award’s criteria and reflect genuine efforts towards inclusion.

The "Damj" Award acts as a strategic platform encouraging entities to implement inclusive policies. By honouring pioneering efforts, it incentivises organisations to strive for excellence in this field.

This initiative supports wider participation across different sectors, enhancing comprehensive inclusion for People of Determination in Abu Dhabi. It aligns with broader community goals set for 2025.

With inputs from WAM