Abu Dhabi Award Celebrates 20 Years of Honoring Philanthropic Visionaries under Presidential Patronage

Abu Dhabi Awards Launches 12th Edition, Celebrating Two Decades of Community Service Recognition

Under the patronage of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Abu Dhabi Awards has opened nominations for its 12th edition, marking 20 years of honoring individuals who dedicate their time and efforts to serving society without compensation. The initiative aligns with the UAE's declaration of 2025 as the "Year of Community" under the theme "Hand in Hand," reinforcing the nation's commitment to fostering social cohesion and volunteerism.

Two Decades of Recognizing Silent Heroes

Since its inception in 2005, the Abu Dhabi Awards has spotlighted 100 personalities from 18 different nationalities, recognizing their outstanding contributions across diverse fields including community service, sustainability, healthcare, scientific research, cultural preservation, environmental protection, and support for people of determination (individuals with disabilities).

The awards program demonstrates how seemingly simple acts of kindness can create profound positive impacts that inspire others to take active, constructive roles in serving their communities. This philosophy has become particularly relevant as the UAE positions itself as a global hub for humanitarian initiatives and social innovation.

Strategic Alignment with National Vision

Mahra Al Shamsi, a member of the Abu Dhabi Awards organizing committee, emphasized that each nomination celebrates values that define Emirati society. "The Abu Dhabi Awards aims to honor those who represent different segments of society, working quietly and with dedication, inspiring others around them with their ultimate goal of serving the nation with sincerity," she stated.

The timing of this edition is strategically significant, coinciding with the UAE's broader national agenda to strengthen social bonds and community engagement. This approach mirrors successful community recognition programs in other developed nations, such as Singapore's Community Spirit Awards and Canada's Governor General's Caring Canadian Award.

Grassroots Engagement Campaign

This year, the awards launches the "Goodness is Everywhere" campaign, a field initiative visiting shopping centers, schools, and construction sites. The campaign includes distributing care packages to construction workers and organizing interactive activities for children and families, aimed at encouraging community members to perform good deeds and appreciate those who work silently with dedication.

Impact Stories from Previous Winners

Transforming Personal Challenges into Community Assets

Dhaiban Al Muhiri, a previous winner, exemplifies the awards' mission. After becoming paralyzed in a traffic accident, he channeled his experience as a former athlete into supporting people of determination. He founded the UAE Paralympic team and created unprecedented opportunities for disabled individuals in sports, demonstrating how personal adversity can become a catalyst for broader social impact.

"My message was to help this group overcome disability and start a new life in society," Al Muhiri explained, noting that winning the Abu Dhabi Award serves as motivation to continue his mission of supporting people of determination in contributing to the nation's progress.

Maternal Dedication Extends to Community Service

Zafrana Ahmed Khamis, known as the "Mother of People of Determination," has volunteered for over 15 years at the Abu Dhabi Club for People of Determination. Her work, initially motivated by having two daughters who are champions in the UAE Special Olympics team, expanded into comprehensive support for disabled individuals across various sports programs and activities.

Medical Innovation Saving Young Lives

Dr. Tayseer Atrak, Head of Pediatrics at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, won recognition for his voluntary medical work focusing on child safety programs. His initiatives address leading causes of child mortality, including traffic accidents, drowning, and children being left in vehicles during extreme heat. His programs have trained tens of thousands of community members in first aid and safety protocols.

Broader Implications for Regional Development

The Abu Dhabi Awards reflects the UAE's evolving approach to social development, emphasizing grassroots contributions alongside top-down government initiatives. This model contrasts with traditional recognition systems that primarily honor high-profile achievements, instead celebrating everyday heroes who create lasting community impact.

The program's success over two decades suggests a sustainable model for other Gulf nations seeking to strengthen social cohesion while maintaining rapid economic development. By institutionalizing recognition for volunteer service, the UAE creates incentives for continued community engagement that complement its ambitious national development goals.

Nominations for the current edition remain open year-round through the awards' digital platform, with selection based on the impact of contributions rather than the number of nominations received. This approach ensures that even single nominations can lead to recognition, emphasizing the program's commitment to discovering hidden community champions rather than popularity contests.