The Federal Youth Foundation, in collaboration with executive councils from various emirates, has officially announced the opening of applications for membership in the local youth councils for the eighth term, spanning from 2027 to 2029. This initiative aims to enhance youth participation in the national development journey and attract talented young Emiratis to contribute to the advancement of initiatives and programmes that align with the objectives of the National Youth Agenda 2031. It also seeks to solidify the role of youth councils in developing leadership skills and bolstering social responsibility.
Encouraging Youth Engagement
Khalid Mohammed Al Nuaimi, Director of the Federal Youth Foundation, stated, “Local youth councils represent a pioneering national model for engaging youth in the development process, reflecting the wise leadership’s vision in investing in their talents and capabilities. It provides them with the opportunity to contribute to shaping initiatives and developing solutions that serve the community. The long-standing experience of youth councils has produced national competencies equipped with leadership and teamwork skills, increasing youth visibility across various institutional and community sectors.”
New Generation of Leaders
Al Nuaimi further expressed the Foundation’s aspiration for the new term, aiming to attract a generation of ambitious young people ready to transform their ideas into impactful projects and achievements. He emphasised the importance of coordination between the councils and national entities, which would open new horizons for young talents to acquire experience, assume responsibilities, and actively participate in achieving developmental priorities. He affirmed, “We at the Federal Youth Foundation believe that empowering youth is one of the key tools for influence and a fundamental pillar in building the nation’s future and enhancing its achievements.”
Objectives of Local Youth Councils
The Local Youth Councils aim to empower young people and enhance their contribution to fulfilling the objectives of the National Youth Agenda 2031. They involve youth in designing and implementing youth initiatives and programmes, developing their leadership skills for both local and international representation, and enhancing communication and collaboration with national entities. This facilitates knowledge sharing and the exchange of experiences, leading to the development of innovative solutions that serve the community.
Opportunities for Development
The councils provide their members with an interactive institutional environment that allows for discussing youth-related issues and local priorities. Members can engage with decision-makers, contribute to the development of ideas and proposals, and transform them into practical initiatives. Furthermore, the councils focus on enhancing dialogue, planning, and teamwork skills, which bolster members’ abilities to assume responsibilities and create a positive, sustainable impact.
Application Criteria
To qualify for the Local Youth Councils, applicants must be UAE citizens aged between 18 and 35 years, possess at least a high school diploma, exhibit outstanding personal skills and abilities, and have made significant contributions to community activities. Additionally, candidates must be proficient in both Arabic and English, possess general knowledge, and show a genuine interest in youth-related issues on both local and international levels.
How to Apply
The Federal Youth Foundation invites eligible young Emiratis to register for membership in the local youth councils for the term 2027–2029. Applications can be submitted via the online link at linktr.ee/emiratesyouth until 23 October 2026. This is an excellent opportunity for youth to engage in this national experience and contribute their ideas and skills to initiatives that benefit society and support the developmental journey of the UAE.