Latest news with #YearofCommunity
TAG 91.1
19 minutes ago
- General
- TAG 91.1
UAE announces unified school calendar for 2025–2026
The UAE's Ministry of Education has announced a new unified school calendar for the 2025–2026 academic year, approved by the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council. The calendar applies to all public and private schools nationwide, setting standardised dates for term starts, end of the three terms and end-of-term holidays. It aims to enhance family cohesion, promote student well-being and align with the goals of the 'Year of Community.' The new academic year officially begins on August 25, 2025, with the first term concluding with a four-week winter break from December 8, 2025 to January 4, 2026, with classes resuming on January 5. The second term runs until March 15, followed by a spring break from March 16 to 29, with the third term running from March 30 to July 3. Schools in Sharjah will reopen on March 23 for the third term and wrap up on July 2. To ease academic pressure, the calendar also introduces three mid-term breaks for public and private schools following the government's curriculum: October 13 to 19, 2025 February 11 to 15, 2026 May 25 to 31, 2026, aligning with Eid Al Adha Private schools not following the national curriculum may schedule mid-term breaks in October and February, but each must not exceed five consecutive days and must remain within the designated months. The Ministry has emphasized that schools must adhere to the calendar, including conducting assessments through the final week of each term. Exceptions apply only to students sitting for international exams. The goal, officials say, is a more balanced and connected academic experience that supports both educational excellence and community well-being. — UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) July 23, 2025
Time Out Dubai
4 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Dubai Design Week 2025: Return dates, what to expect and theme revealed
Dubai Design Week is set to return for its 11th edition this year, and it looks like it will be bigger than ever. Running from Tuesday November 4 to Sunday November 9, Dubai Design Week will feature a line-up of top designers, emerging talent and eye-catching public installations. Bringing some of the best designers from around the world into the same space as some emerging artists, the theme of this year will be 'Community', as a response to the UAE's Year of Community. If you like reading this: 7 things to do for an immediate serotonin boost in Dubai The Waterfront Terrace in d3 will play host to design, fashion, architecture and art exhibitions during the week. Instagram-friendly outdoor installations from designers, architects, collectives, creative practitioners and design-led brands will explore the overarching theme of community. If you fancy getting involved in the action, then there will be a programme packed with workshops at Maker Space which will offer visitors of all ages and skill levels a challenge. Editions, a limited-edition art and design fair, will take place between Thursday November 6 and Sunday November 9. It will showcase work from 50 local and international galleries, design studios and collectives. Credit: Dubai Design Week 2024 Supporting local designers, a marketplace will be constructed for the week, allowing producers to showcase and sell everything from homeware to jewellery and fashion. Keeping all the family entertained, the market will boast some food experiences, children's activities and live performances too. As part of the annual Urban Commisions competition, Dubai Design Week has also invited designers and architects to develop outdoor furniture for public spaces, which could be made into a reality if the design is a winner. The Abwab initiative will also return and feature emerging talent from West, South and East Asia as well as Africa. This year Abwab will follow the theme of 'In the Details'. You might also like: 11 must-see art shows in Dubai for 2024 Finally, the week will host a series of exhibitions to showcase new talent, as well as talks from leading international experts in design. If you want to get involved and participate in Dubai Design week, you are encouraged to apply on the official website. Looking for things to do in Dubai? 8 blingy things to do in Dubai if you want to show off We get it, you've got some showing off to do From beaches to mountains: 16 must-visit sunrise spots in the UAE It's worth being an early bird for these views Coming soon: The most anticipated restaurant and bar openings in Dubai Get these hot spots on your radar
Khaleej Times
6 hours ago
- General
- Khaleej Times
UAE residents can now nominate inspiring individuals for Abu Dhabi Awards
UAE residents can now nominate individuals who have made a positive impact on the community for the 12th edition of the Abu Dhabi Awards, one of the nation's highest civilian honours. Held under the patronage of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the awards recognise those who have shown exceptional dedication and commitment to serving the country. Who can be nominated? Nominations are open to everyone, regardless of age, nationality, or profession. Eligible nominees include: Citizens, residents, or even visitors whose good deeds have benefited the UAE People whose international contributions reflect positively on the UAE Individuals whose voluntary work, advocacy, or public service made a lasting impact As long as the contribution is meaningful, anyone can nominate, and anyone can be nominated. How to nominate Nominations can be submitted online via The process is simple and open year-round. Once submitted, nominations go through a thorough research and review phase, where a dedicated team evaluates each candidate's impact. Finalists are then reviewed by a judging panel, who makes the final recommendations. The recipients will be honoured during a special ceremony, where Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed personally awards each honouree the prestigious Abu Dhabi Medal, issued by the Ruler of Abu Dhabi. Coinciding with the UAE's Year of Community, this year's edition also marks 20 years since the award's inception in 2005. To date, 100 recipients from 18 nationalities have been honoured, including doctors, volunteers, athletes, environmental advocates, educators and more. 'This initiative is about recognising the unsung heroes among us, those who serve quietly but leave a lasting impact,' said Mahra Al Shamsi, a member of the Abu Dhabi Awards Organising Committee. 'One nomination could help spark a legacy of giving that lives on for generations to come.' To mark this milestone, nine landmarks across Abu Dhabi, including ADGM, Mubadala tower, Al Ain City Municipality, Al Dhafra Region Municipality, Khalifa University, the Capital Gate and W Hotel Abu Dhabi were illuminated in yellow on Tuesday evening as a gesture of gratitude for inspiring individuals who have contributed with selflessness, dedication, and sincerity. This year's campaign also introduces a new outreach initiative called 'Goodness in Motion,' which will bring the Abu Dhabi Awards directly to the community through visits to malls, schools, and construction sites. The mobile campaign will include interactive activities, giveaways, and awareness sessions aimed at encouraging more people to take action and recognise the quiet changemakers around them. The Awards Committee will also host workshops and roadshows in collaboration with various institutions across the country to spread the message of appreciation, generosity, and collective responsibility. 'This is not just about the award, it's about the values we want to see more of,' said Mahra Al Shamsi. 'Selflessness, kindness, and service to others are what make our community strong.'
Web Release
14 hours ago
- Business
- Web Release
DGHR organises ‘Community Change Lab' to advance ‘Year of Community' objectives
Aligning with the declaration of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, designating 2025 as the 'Year of Community', the Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR), represented by the Strategy and Excellence Department, organised the 'Community Change Lab' initiative. The innovative venture explored proposed mechanisms and solutions to prepare qualified human capital and encourage their participation in both social and institutional ventures, upholding the objectives of the 'Year of Community', aimed at promoting social unity and sustainable development. The lab convened officials from the Community Development Authority, Dubai Women Establishment, and Dubai Sports Council, along with representatives from the private sector and leading experts from various fields. It also facilitated discussions on key themes and showcased high-impact ideas, which can enhance the community's role in fostering integration across diverse social groups. H.E. Abdullah Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi, Director General of the Dubai Government Human Resources Department, commended the productive collaboration among relevant government entities for this venture, which aligns with the objectives of the 'Year of Community' as well as DGHR's vision to establish a cohesive institutional framework that promotes harmony and integration within the government system, ultimately benefiting individuals, institutions, and society. H.E. said: 'The 'Year of Community' represents a national call to strengthen social solidarity and cohesion, while expanding community participation in building a prosperous future. We believe that national talents are key drivers of institutional social change and sustainable development. In line with this vision, we have organised the 'Community Change Lab' initiative to develop innovative, actionable solutions based on community-centric innovation. It can also enhance the resilience of our government institutions, creating an environment that empowers individuals to actively engage and contribute to change, supporting Dubai's forward-looking humanitarian and social agenda. This is why we emphasize the importance of the 'Innovation Club' launched by the department as an open platform for all those involved in innovation and development within government institutions. It plays a vital role in empowering their efforts and ambitions to drive positive change and foster a culture of community-driven innovation, ultimately contributing to sustainable development.' The lab focused on four core themes to help forge a more resilient future that embraces positive transformation, welcomes all segments of society, and affirms the role of individuals in advancing sustainable social development, upholding DGHR's visionary goals. These include the Policies and Systems pillar, aimed at developing inclusive policies and legislation, empowering all segments of society, specifically employees, people of determination, women, retirees, and job seekers, while ensuring the sustainability of social impact; the Empowerment and Capacity Building pillar for designing training programs, which can enhance the skills of target groups, enabling their effective participation in community initiatives and supporting institutional integration. In addition, the Digital Empowerment and Artificial Intelligence pillar explored the role of digital solutions and AI technologies in delivering innovative services that promote inclusion and stimulate engagement. Meanwhile, the Social Participation and Partnerships pillar focused on boosting cooperation between the public and private sectors, as well as the broader community, to launch innovative ventures which can strengthen social integration, empower women, and support people of determination and retirees through sustainable partnerships. The Community Change Lab served as a unique platform to transform strategic visions into tangible initiatives, aligning with DGHR's innovative approach, which prioritises human capital investment as a means to drive sustainable development. Moreover, the entity's ongoing efforts contribute to empowering all segments of society, including women, people of determination, retirees, and job seekers, while fostering active engagement and strengthening social cohesion.
Mid East Info
a day ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
DGHR organises ‘Community Change Lab' to advance ‘Year of Community' objectives
Aligning with the declaration of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, designating 2025 as the 'Year of Community', the Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR), represented by the Strategy and Excellence Department, organised the 'Community Change Lab' initiative. The innovative venture explored proposed mechanisms and solutions to prepare qualified human capital and encourage their participation in both social and institutional ventures, upholding the objectives of the 'Year of Community', aimed at promoting social unity and sustainable development. The lab convened officials from the Community Development Authority, Dubai Women Establishment, and Dubai Sports Council, along with representatives from the private sector and leading experts from various fields. It also facilitated discussions on key themes and showcased high-impact ideas, which can enhance the community's role in fostering integration across diverse social groups. H.E. Abdullah Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi, Director General of the Dubai Government Human Resources Department, commended the productive collaboration among relevant government entities for this venture, which aligns with the objectives of the 'Year of Community' as well as DGHR's vision to establish a cohesive institutional framework that promotes harmony and integration within the government system, ultimately benefiting individuals, institutions, and society. H.E. said: 'The 'Year of Community' represents a national call to strengthen social solidarity and cohesion, while expanding community participation in building a prosperous future. We believe that national talents are key drivers of institutional social change and sustainable development. In line with this vision, we have organised the 'Community Change Lab' initiative to develop innovative, actionable solutions based on community-centric innovation. It can also enhance the resilience of our government institutions, creating an environment that empowers individuals to actively engage and contribute to change, supporting Dubai's forward-looking humanitarian and social agenda. This is why we emphasize the importance of the 'Innovation Club' launched by the department as an open platform for all those involved in innovation and development within government institutions. It plays a vital role in empowering their efforts and ambitions to drive positive change and foster a culture of community-driven innovation, ultimately contributing to sustainable development.' The lab focused on four core themes to help forge a more resilient future that embraces positive transformation, welcomes all segments of society, and affirms the role of individuals in advancing sustainable social development, upholding DGHR's visionary goals. These include the Policies and Systems pillar, aimed at developing inclusive policies and legislation, empowering all segments of society, specifically employees, people of determination, women, retirees, and job seekers, while ensuring the sustainability of social impact; the Empowerment and Capacity Building pillar for designing training programs, which can enhance the skills of target groups, enabling their effective participation in community initiatives and supporting institutional integration. In addition, the Digital Empowerment and Artificial Intelligence pillar explored the role of digital solutions and AI technologies in delivering innovative services that promote inclusion and stimulate engagement. Meanwhile, the Social Participation and Partnerships pillar focused on boosting cooperation between the public and private sectors, as well as the broader community, to launch innovative ventures which can strengthen social integration, empower women, and support people of determination and retirees through sustainable partnerships. The Community Change Lab served as a unique platform to transform strategic visions into tangible initiatives, aligning with DGHR's innovative approach, which prioritises human capital investment as a means to drive sustainable development. Moreover, the entity's ongoing efforts contribute to empowering all segments of society, including women, people of determination, retirees, and job seekers, while fostering active engagement and strengthening social cohesion.
