In an exclusive interview with “Al-Ittihad,” Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al-Niaadi, the Minister of State for Youth Affairs, detailed a national strategy aimed at empowering the youth of the UAE and enhancing their role in sustainable development. This strategy, linked to the “National Agenda for Youth 2031,” is designed to create a roadmap for youth empowerment, ensuring they are integral to developmental efforts across various sectors.
Progress in National Programs
Dr. Al-Niaadi highlighted that the execution rate of the first package of programs and projects launched by the Federal Youth Foundation has reached 65% as of mid-2025. The foundation has seen significant achievements in entrepreneurship, education, mental health, and community empowerment. He expressed that the foundation operates under a clear national strategy rooted in the “National Agenda for Youth 2031,” which serves as an ambitious framework for harnessing the potential of Emirati youth while fostering their contributions to sustainable development.
Involvement in Decision-Making
Emphasizing the importance of youth in decision-making, Dr. Al-Niaadi stated, “We strive to ensure that young people are an integral part of decision-making processes, not merely recipients of it.” To facilitate this, the foundation has established a comprehensive system of youth councils at local, ministerial, and sectoral levels, as well as global councils for Emirati students studying abroad, enhancing the country’s representation in international forums. These councils serve as genuine platforms for change, enabling young people to voice their opinions and contribute constructively to policy-making across various sectors, including education, the economy, and environmental sustainability.
Development of Leadership Skills
According to Dr. Al-Niaadi, the Federal Youth Foundation is committed to developing not just leaders for the future but true partners in the national development journey. This is achieved through empowering youth with leadership skills and engaging them in decision-making. The focus of their programs is to develop the professional and leadership abilities of young people. Notably, the “Youth Circles” initiative creates unique opportunities for interactive discussions between youth and decision-makers, where they can directly address their concerns and propose initiatives.
Community Engagement and National Identity
Dr. Al-Niaadi emphasized that true empowerment begins with strengthening identity and belonging among youth. The foundation is committed to fostering a robust system that includes professional and economic development while addressing mental health and encouraging young people to participate in voluntary work. He noted, “We have developed a supportive environment that allows youth to actively contribute to all sectors through quality initiatives that respond to their needs.” This commitment reflects a deep recognition of the vital role that youth play in the broader narrative of national development, inspiring them to engage in meaningful projects.
Through its innovative approach, the Federal Youth Foundation aspires to cultivate a generation of empowered Emirati youth who are not only prepared for future challenges but are also active contributors to shaping the country’s sustainable development landscape. This ongoing effort highlights the foundation’s dedication to investing in the future of UAE youth, ensuring that they play a significant role in the nation’s aspirations leading up to 2031.