Empowering Youth: UAE’s Strategic Pathway to Achieving the SDGs
Youth as the Engine of Sustainable Transformation
On August 12, 2025, the world marks International Youth Day under the theme “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond”. In the UAE and across the Middle East, this message resonates deeply.
With a rapidly growing young population, the region’s future success hinges on harnessing the energy, creativity, and innovation of its youth to deliver on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, described youth empowerment as “a strategic investment, crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and strengthening the UAE’s global leadership across all sectors”.
From Vision to Action
Dr. Al Dahak emphasised that the UAE’s approach to sustainability begins at home, with local action. “Our founding father laid a sound foundation for robust youth development, a legacy carried forward by our wise leadership. Today, youth are not just leaders of the future, but active partners in shaping our present,” she said.
This commitment is reflected in national programmes like MUSTADEEM, which equips young Emiratis with practical skills in sustainable agriculture and environmental protection. By nurturing future scientists, innovators, and entrepreneurs, the UAE is investing in long-term solutions for climate resilience, food security, and economic diversification.
Corporate Commitment to Youth-led Sustainability
The private sector is also stepping up. Ellora-Julie Parekh, Chief Sustainability Officer at Al-Futtaim, said:
“On this International Youth Day, we celebrate the incredible potential of young people in creating a better world. At Al-Futtaim, we see youth as key drivers for achieving sustainable goals of today and tomorrow.
"Our mentorship programmes, industry events, and other initiatives provide them with the tools and opportunities to thrive. We believe that by integrating their fresh perspectives into our business models, we can drive meaningful change and build a more sustainable future, together.”
This synergy between government vision and private-sector innovation is strengthening the UAE’s role as a hub for sustainability leadership in the Middle East.
A Global Role for Local Changemakers
International Youth Day also saw the UN Secretary-General announce the latest cohort of young climate leaders who will advise on global climate action. Such initiatives mirror the UAE’s belief that every local idea, project, and innovation has the power to make a global impact.
As Dr. Al Dahak reminded the nation’s youth: “Every innovative idea you launch, every small project you lead in your community, directly contributes to achieving development goals that transcend the borders of the UAE and reach the entire world.”
Conclusion: A Generation Ready to Lead
Empowering youth is more than policy—it is a cultural and economic imperative. With strong leadership, targeted skills training, and platforms for innovation, the UAE is positioning its young citizens not just to inherit the future, but to actively design it.
The nation’s message is clear: youth are not merely the torchbearers of tomorrow—they are the changemakers of today, driving the region toward a sustainable and prosperous future for all.
