Chairman Message

Since the founding of the United Arab Emirates, social development has never been treated as a secondary priority. It has been a defining national choice rooted in the belief that strong families build strong societies, and that human wellbeing is the foundation of sustainable progress.

This vision, laid by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may he rest in peace, continues today under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who has placed people, family stability, and quality of life at the heart of national development. In Abu Dhabi, this vision continues to guide how we shape a society that is confident in its values, inclusive in its outlook, and prepared for the future.

Within this vision, the Department of Community Development plays a central role in strengthening the social sector in Abu Dhabi. As the regulator of the sector, DCD works to shape social policy, develop legislative and governance frameworks, and align efforts across government, semi-government, private sector, and third-sector entities to build a more connected and effective social system.

Our ambition goes beyond coordination. We are working to build a social model that is proactive rather than reactive, data-informed rather than assumption-led, and focused on measurable impact—contributing to the development of individuals who are independent, self-reliant, and active members of their community. Through stronger governance, better use of evidence and knowledge, early intervention approaches, and the intelligent use of technology, we aim to enhance the design and delivery of social services, improving their efficiency, impact, and the overall experience for the community.

We also believe that Abu Dhabi offers a distinctive model of social cohesion - one that protects national identity and values while embracing coexistence, mutual respect, and shared responsibility across a diverse community. This balance is one of Abu Dhabi’s greatest strengths, and it is essential to the kind of society we seek to advance.

At the heart of our work is one clear commitment: to enable strong families, empower individuals, and foster a cohesive society in which institutions work together, communities are heard, and progress is felt in everyday life.

Our focus remains on building a social sector that is more integrated, more agile, and more human-centered - a sector that not only responds to today’s needs but helps shape a stronger future for Abu Dhabi.