In line with the objectives of the Dubai Social Agenda 33 to build a more cohesive and engaged society, the Community Development Authority in Dubai (CDA) participated in the Dubai Mallathon initiative, held at City Centre Mirdif, with the active participation of more than 300 volunteers, underscoring the growing role of volunteerism in supporting community initiatives.
The event was attended by Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai، Her Excellency Aisha Miran, Director General of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA)، His Excellency Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA); His Excellency Mishal Abdul Karim Julfar
Executive Director of Dubai Corporation Ambulance Services (DCAS); and Major General Staff Khalifa Al Hamli, Director of the Office of the Minister of Defence. Their presence reflected the strong integration among government entities in supporting national initiatives that promote health and quality of life, while reinforcing volunteerism as a cornerstone of building a more cohesive and sustainable society.
Volunteering That Creates Impact
Volunteers played a vital role in the success of the event by taking part in the walking routes alongside community members, in addition to supporting the organisation of activities, welcoming participants, and providing guidance and assistance throughout the event. Their contribution reflected the growing culture of volunteerism and the community’s increasing awareness of the importance of civic participation, in line with Dubai’s vision of building a more cohesive and sustainable society.
Reem Al Al Awabed, Director of Community Programmers Department at the Community Development Authority in Dubai (CDA), said: “The remarkable participation of volunteers in Dubai Mallathon reflects the values of giving and belonging that define the UAE community, while embodying our leadership’s vision of fostering a culture of social responsibility and collective action. Every volunteer who dedicates their time and effort creates a positive impact that extends across society and contributes to building a more connected and collaborative community.”
She added: “At the Community Development Authority (CDA), we are committed to creating meaningful opportunities that enable community members to actively contribute to social initiatives. We believe that volunteering is a community culture and a way of life that strengthens responsibility and a sense of belonging, while fostering sustainable partnerships that support the objectives of the Dubai Social Agenda 33 and reinforce Dubai’s position as a global model for community development and volunteerism. As part of these efforts, the CDA enables volunteers to register for the ‘Dubai Mallathon’ initiative through the DubaiNow app, making it easier for more members of the community to participate in this national initiative.”
Effective Community Partnerships
The initiative brought together volunteers from several government entities, including the Dubai Sports Council, Dubai Civil Defence, Dubai Police, Dubai Courts, General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai, and Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MBRHE). It also witnessed the participation of volunteers from several community volunteer teams, including Esefni volunteering team، Asaad Shaab Volunteer Team, Read & Enjoy Center Cultural Volunteer Team, Genius volunteer team, Basmat Khair Volunteer Team, and the UAE Parents’ Care and Honour Volunteer Team. In addition, students from Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) and Zayed University, along with representatives from Dubai Charity Association, took part in the initiative, reflecting the strong collaboration between government entities, volunteer groups, educational institutions, and community organisations. The participation highlights the growing culture of volunteering, reinforces the values of social responsibility, and encourages community members to actively contribute to serving society.
This strong participation reflects the CDA’s ongoing efforts to foster a culture of volunteerism, expand community participation, and strengthen partnerships across sectors, contributing to the development of a more cohesive and sustainable society while reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global model for community development and quality of life.
