A place to call home: The spirit of community in the UAE

As the ‘Year of Community’ progresses, it is proving to be a truly one-of-a-kind society-wide initiative. Through a tapestry of events and collaborations that strengthen community bonds, it continues to enrich the dynamic energy marked by the diverse perspectives that together create the distinctive identity of the UAE.

The Year of Community initiative stands out as a demonstration of the nation’s commitment towards creating a balanced and vibrant society that values both progress and tradition, while capturing the city’s evolving spirit.

Dubai is increasingly being perceived as a place where people want to build their future, enjoying a refreshing focus on prioritising wellbeing, happiness as well as stronger connections within the community. The Year of Community is definitely strengthening the equilibrium between progress and tradition by not just building homes but revitalising communities with the power of deeper connections.

Stepping up its commitment to more creative ways towards community care, the government’s Super Block initiative is set to transform the Al Karama, Al Fahidi, Abu Hail and the Al Quoz Creative Zone, aiming to breathe new life into social cohesiveness through fostering greater interactions and engagement.

This initiative brings to mind a social gathering where I shared the dinner table with four strangers, all expatriates of different nationalities, who have called the UAE home for several years. We soon started a free-flowing conversation around our favourite Dubai experiences, such as roaming the alleyways of a vibrant souq, long walks on the beach on weekends or sipping the sweetness of karak tea on pleasantly cool evenings.

“The charm of the old shops in Karama is still an emotion,” said Tom, while Emily shared memories of the restaurant that her family used to frequent for years.

This discussion made it amply clear to me that these are the places that connect communities through invisible bonds and give them a strong sense of belonging. And, alongside the plush malls and glass facades, preserving such places help sustain the soul of the city for residents and tourists alike.

I remember reading recently about an old grocery in Al Qusais, preserved by the expat owner over the last 35 years as a timeless treasure of memories and tradition.

The owner was quoted as saying, “My shop is like a museum. Children visit to see what shops in Dubai were like in the olden days.”

It is places such as these neighbourhoods and buildings that preserve countless stories and experiences that its residents, both locals and expatriates hold dear and offer a glimpse into the everyday excitements, disappointments and adjustments.

The strength of a community starts with the connections it fosters and government initiatives such as these present a great opportunity for the younger generation to take pride in and contribute towards the national priority of preserving unity, heritage and culture. Through leadership, teamwork, and social responsibility they are equipping the next generation to carry forward the spirit of “Hand in Hand.”

Whether through community-driven events, nationwide volunteering campaigns or digital engagement, the UAE is empowering its residents while encouraging creativity, diversity and international collaboration.

Expats and UAE nationals, business entities and individuals as well as public-private organisations need to come together and collaborate to carry forward the powerful message of co-existence and cohesion, rooted in compassion and resilience.

Fyna Ashwath is a journalist based in the UAE