Page 17 - WATANI AL EMARAT FOUNDATION PR REPORT - AUGUST 2024

between youth and decision-makers across various sectors. These partnerships are a vital tool
in achieving the sustainable development goals we strive for.” Her Highness highlighted the
inspiring events and activities during the Dubai Youth Retreat, held in conjunction with the
launch of the National Youth Agenda 2031, which aims to position Emirati youth as a leading
model locally and globally in thought, values, and meaningful contributions to economic, social
development, and national responsibility.
Invested in the future

Commenting on the event, His Excellency Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi said: “Youth are the foundation
of development and the cornerstone for building a prosperous and sustainable future. The wise
leadership has always believed in investing in their energies and guiding them towards
innovation and creativity in various fields. We constantly strive to provide an enabling
environment that allows them to achieve their aspirations and develop their abilities, as they are
the leaders of tomorrow who will carry the responsibility of continuing the pioneering
achievements witnessed by the UAE.”

HE Al Neyadi added: “The Dubai Youth Retreat has reinforced the values of leadership and
innovation among ambitious Emirati youth, strengthening their role in decision-making to shape
a bright future for Dubai and the UAE as a whole. This initiative is a result of the efforts that
began with the first youth retreat in 2016, followed by the 2024 retreat, which laid the foundation
for the launch of the National Youth Agenda 2031. Each of these initiatives has provided a clear
vision for the future of youth and represented a significant turning point toward achieving the
sustainable development goals.”

Her Excellency Hala Badri emphasised the importance and necessity of empowering, guiding,
and supporting the youth in their ambitions and turning their dreams into reality. “Youth are the
hope of the present and future, a driving force, a source of inspiration, and the true engine of
innovation and sustainable development. Their diverse ideas, skills, and capabilities embody the
values of giving in all fields. Our wise leadership has believed in the importance of investing in
them and harnessing their energies and competencies, encouraging them to take part in
Dubai’s evolution and raising its attractiveness, which has positively impacted the emirate’s
global prominence,” she said.

“The Dubai Youth Retreat helps aid communication, presenting models of youth thought and
guidance. It has created an environment that fosters creativity and excellence, capable of
opening new horizons for youth and giving them the opportunity to participate in formulating a
series of qualitative initiatives and plans that prepare them for the future, enhancing their role in
developing solutions that meet their needs and help them face challenges. I am proud of the
quality of ideas and topics discussed during the retreat and its outcomes, which address the
goals of the National Youth Agenda 2031,” she added.
Interactive workshops

The retreat’s programme included a series of brainstorming sessions and interactive workshops
that addressed themes highlighting the impact of youth and their role in driving positive change
and contributing to the development process.
The economy and trade theme discussed the need to develop young skills, equip them with
innovative tools to face future challenges and encourage them to build on their ideas and launch

https://catalystevents.ae/dubai-youth-retreat-showcases-immense-creative-potential-of-emirati-
youth-to-reimagine-the-future/