Hand in hand: Empowering communities beyond remittances in the UAE

Khaleej Times

04-06-2025

The UAE is often recognized for its bold vision, fast-paced growth and global influence. But amid all the headlines about innovation and economic success, there's a quieter story – one that deserves just as much attention.
It's the story of the people who came here to build a better future. Not just for themselves, but for their families – often thousands of miles away. For millions of people, the UAE is a place of opportunity, as well as a place of responsibility. Through the money they send home, they support lives, fuel education, fund healthcare and offer hope. These remittances, often made month after month, form an invisible thread of love and sacrifice that connects nations.
That's why the UAE's decision to mark 2025 as the Year of Community feels especially meaningful. It's an invitation to reflect not only on what we build here, but how our lives deeply intertwine with others elsewhere.
A nation built on connection
Every remittance, every dirham sent, represents hard work, quiet resilience and a deeply personal story. The UAE is one of the world's leading sources in outward remittances – but this is not about scale. It's about values and a sense of duty so many people carry with them every single day.
As a nation that is home to over 200 nationalities, the UAE has become something quite rare: a modern hub that is not only attracting global talent, but also redefining migration trends. For many, the move here isn't only about wages – it's about possibility. A chance to grow, contribute and belong. This shift challenges outdated ideas of migration as temporary and transactional. In the UAE, migration is increasingly aspirational and rooted in mutual benefit.
2025: The Year of Community
That sense of belonging is being supported not only by individual communities but through government-led efforts as well. Across the country, local authorities are rolling out initiatives that prioritise connection, inclusion, and mental wellbeing.
Dubai Police's Positive Spirit initiative plays a key role in strengthening social cohesion through sports and community awareness programs. The Community Development Authority brings together government bodies, volunteers, and residents to strengthen the social fabric.
In Abu Dhabi, the Department of Community Development recently hosted the 2025 Social Sector Strategic Retreat, gathering key stakeholders to shape the future of social services and sustainable community development. The Department also launched the Abu Dhabi Excellence Award for People of Determination Inclusion, recognizing organizations that prioritize accessibility and empowering enabling environments for all members of society.
These efforts reflect a broader national commitment to ensuring that prosperity includes everyone—not just economically, but socially.
Celebrating community through shared experiences
But community empowerment isn't just the responsibility of the government — it's a shared effort. Businesses and individuals all play a role in grassroots programs that reveal humanity behind the numbers.
For nearly two decades, Camp Ka Champ has celebrated the creativity and spirit of worker communities, reaching over three million people. It's more than a singing competition - it's recognition, joy, and belonging.
Carrying this spirit forward, Western Union on Wheels has taken cultural and financial support directly to communities. In 2024 alone, it connected with over 500,000 people across the country, celebrating Diwali, Pongal, Onam, Christmas and more. These aren't just festivals — they are reminders of identity, memory, and shared experience.
A future built on empowerment
As a society, we benefit immensely from the dedication of those who send remittances. We owe it to them to ensure they feel seen, supported, and included. This means not only recognising their economic role, but truly valuing their presence—socially, culturally, and emotionally.
The Year of Community gives us a chance to reflect, yes—but also to act. To find new ways to make belonging more than just a feeling. To ensure that empowerment reaches everyone, no matter where they come from, or who they're sending money to.