The United Arab Emirates is proudly marking International Youth Skills Day under this year’s theme: “Empowering Youth through Artificial Intelligence and Digital Skills.” With unwavering strategic plans and visionary leadership, the UAE continues to invest tirelessly in its youth—recognizing them not only as the present’s hope but as tomorrow’s trailblazers.
Forging the Future through Digital Proficiency
At a dynamic workshop organized by the Youth Council of Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA), young professionals collaborated with Microsoft to master effective prompt creation for the AI-powered tool Microsoft 365 Copilot. As Syed Mohammad Al Tayer, DEWA’s CEO and Managing Director, expressed:
“Aligned with the National Youth Agenda 2031, we are committed to equipping our youth with cutting-edge AI innovations—transforming them from users into collaborators who can craft fresh, government-enhancing solutions.”
Mr. Al Tayer further emphasized that encouraging youth to actively engage with advanced technologies ensures they not only harness AI responsibly, but also deepen critical thinking—validating data inputs, assessing model outputs, and ultimately fueling creativity, productivity, and impact.
Cultural Innovation Meets Youth Talent
Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, underlined youth’s importance not only as a societal driving force but also a cultural one. She praised their achievements in art and culture, stating:
“Our youth are the genuine wealth of the nation — the force that drives innovation.”
Dubai Culture’s initiatives integrate AI within cultural spaces—enhancing access, nurturing young artistic talents, and creating a supportive ecosystem that bridges technology with creative aspirations.
Building a Knowledge-Based Economy
Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation, reaffirmed the institution’s vision: enabling a sustainable, knowledge-driven future.
“Skills are the cornerstone of holistic development and the most impactful way to foster adaptive, innovative societies.”
He highlighted two flagship programs:
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Academy of Future Skills (in collaboration with the UNDP): A regional educational platform that equips Arab youth with future-ready competencies through global-standard programs.
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Dubai International Creative Writing Programme: A platform designed to cultivate literary and imaginative skills—balancing technical knowledge with creative expression.
These initiatives underscore the Foundation’s belief: youth empowerment through skill enhancement is a winning strategy for a brighter, more sustainable future.
Sustainability, Innovation, and Youth Leadership
Ahmed bin Shafar, CEO of Empower, the UAE’s leading district cooling provider, emphasized the importance of youth in driving sustainability and innovation. He confirmed that:
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Empower is nurturing an environment where young employees can grow and contribute—spanning administration, engineering, and technical roles.
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This effort reflects the UAE’s trust in its youth as a global exemplar in knowledge and innovation.
Honoring the Youth & Frontline Champions
The “Pride of the Nation” office reiterated its call to invest in youth—especially frontline heroes—highlighting their unwavering dedication in sectors like healthcare and humanitarian services. Youth here are seen as cornerstones of resilience and progress.
Aisha Al Rumaithi, Chair of DEWA’s Youth Council, noted the importance of international partnerships:
“With the upper management’s support, we host specialized workshops in cooperation with leading national and global firms—arming our youth with the tools needed to embrace emerging technologies and lead sustainable development.”
