Sharjah 24:
Under the banner “The Family… A Balance that Shapes the Future,” the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) will host the Regional Forum on Family 2026 in Sharjah on the 28th and 29th of October. This significant event will bring together a distinguished assembly of decision-makers, experts, academics, researchers, representatives from governmental institutions, regional and international organisations, along with media professionals, youth, and families. The forum aims to provide a regional platform for dialogue, experience sharing, and foresight regarding the future of families amidst rapid social and digital transformations.
Objectives and Key Topics
The forum aims to address contemporary challenges facing families, exploring practical and innovative solutions that enhance family stability and quality of life while solidifying their role in building cohesive and sustainable communities. Discussions will centre on five main themes: family dynamics in the digital transformation and future outlook, national identity and cultural values, quality of family life and community well-being, families as partners in development and sustainability, as well as education and capacity-building for the future.
Notable Speakers and Participants
The forum will feature an array of regional and international personalities and experts, including His Excellency Salem Omar Salem, ICESCO Regional Director in Sharjah; His Excellency Abdullah Al-Nuaimi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Family and Child Sector; Dr. Mustapha Ali, Secretary-General of the Global Network of Religions for Children and Director of the Arigatou International Organisation in Nairobi, Kenya; Adnan Al-Farsi, Director-General of the Department of Communication and Empowerment for Persons with Disabilities; Dr. Sharifa Naaman Al-Awami, Executive Director of the Doha International Institute for Family Studies; and Dr. Firas Habal, Head of the Emirates Researchers Centre for Studies and Research.
Additionally, participation will include Dr. Ramata Mamie Mbaye, Director of the Social and Human Sciences Sector at ICESCO; His Excellency Ayman Othman Al-Barout, Secretary-General of the Arab Parliament for Children; and several other distinguished contributors from various fields relevant to family and community development.
Programme Highlights
The forum’s programme will feature specialised scientific papers that link research outcomes to community applications. Notable presentations include “Women at the Heart of Family Balance: What Does Research Say? and How Can Knowledge Translate into Impact?” delivered by Dr. Noura Al-Karbi alongside student Saud Al-Shibani from the University of Sharjah. There will also be sessions focusing on modern global trends in family studies, as presented by Professor Fakher Al-Gharaibeh, and a field study on social media trends and values among youth in the UAE by Dr. Mastour Rahim and Dr. Waseela Yaeesh from Al Dhaid University.
The forum will offer interactive workshops, including “The Journey of Building a Balanced Family from Self-Awareness to Quality Family Life,” facilitated by Moza Saif Al-Shahhi, as well as workshops focusing on parental support during early childhood and innovative, family-oriented creative projects utilizing artificial intelligence.
Partnerships and Community Engagement
The forum enjoys extensive institutional partnerships that enhance collaborative efforts addressing family and community development challenges. Notable partners in community development include the Ministry of Family, Sharjah Family and Community Council, and the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, among others. International cooperation partners include the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and the Global Network of Religions for Children. In addition, various academic institutions and research bodies support the event.
The forum aims to generate strategic recommendations, initiatives, and practical community projects, while expanding institutional partnerships and supporting research in family-related issues. Training and awareness programmes will be developed to empower families in addressing challenges and improving their adaptability to changes, converting knowledge and discussion into sustainable developmental impact.
Invitation to Participate
The organisation of this forum underscores the commitment of the ICESCO Regional Office in Sharjah to enhance collaboration among research, development, and community organisations. It seeks to foster a shared space that unites international experiences with local practices, promoting the exchange of successful methods to safeguard family cohesion and instil values while building capacities for future generations.
The forum extends an open invitation to families and all those interested in family and community issues to register and participate in its discussion sessions, workshops, and associated activities. It aims to involve various stakeholders in crafting visions that anticipate the future of families, rooted in its message advocating collective dialogue and action for a more balanced and sustainable future for all.