The General Network for Government Communication (GNGC), under the General Secretariat of The Executive Council of Dubai, on held its quarter meeting at Al Khawaneej Majlis, convening senior communication leaders from across Dubai’s government entities.
The meeting, attended by Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority, and Sabah Salem Al Shamsi, Acting Assistant Secretary General for Government Communication and General Secretariat Affairs, discussed national initiatives launched that support the objectives of the Year of Community 2025 and the Dubai Social Agenda 33.
Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid emphasised the importance of collaboration among government communication teams to amplify the impact of government work: “Aligning messages and sharing expertise enhances the effectiveness of communication campaigns and maximises their impact. By adopting innovative tools and platforms, Dubai’s entities can foster meaningful engagement with the whole community and support the success of the Year of Community.”
Sabah Salem Al Shamsi said that the Year of Community, declared by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, reflects the leadership’s commitment to strengthening important social values.
He said: “The declaration by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan underscores the importance of community values in our national identity. Strengthening cohesion helps translate these values into positive action.”
Budoor Ali, Director of Government Communications at the General Secretariat of The Executive Council, said: “Effective communication is centered on engaging with people. Government of Dubai’s entities have created a dynamic model for inspiring participation, boosting social cohesion, and contributing to the objectives of the Year of Community and the Dubai Social Agenda 33.”
During the meeting, Mira Al Siri, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications at the Community Development Authority in Dubai, presented mechanisms for engaging different community groups, including senior citizens, people of determination, youth, and low-income individuals. She said: “The Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme reflects our commitment to strengthening the role of the family as a cornerstone of society. Through initiatives such as Dubai Weddings and Dubai Iftar, we aim to promote social stability and foster community bonds, while using smart digital platforms to enhance engagement with various segments of society.”
The meeting also reviewed several key initiatives including “Our Children, Our Responsibility”, launched under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of The Executive Council. Mariam Al Falahi, Director of the Social Policy and Strategy Department at the General Secretariat of The Executive Council said the system provides a comprehensive framework for child welfare, covering healthcare, education, social services, and legal support from pre-natal through to adulthood. The initiative includes the Dubai Child Protection Protocol, training programmes for social workers, and a digital platform linking services across relevant government entities.
Shahla Al Shehhi, Acting Director of the Communication and Marketing Department at the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, presented the Closer to the Community project, featuring Ramadan initiatives to enhance community engagement. She said: “Through the Closer to the Community initiative, we are promoting ethical values, supporting Quranic education for children and youth, and encouraging social cohesion within neighbourhoods. These initiatives contribute significantly to reinforcing national identity and social values.”