In line with the aspirations of the UAE Year of Community, Emirates Foundation, in collaboration with Aldar Properties, organised a volunteer initiative titled Better Together: Volunteer to Give Back to Workers, a national initiative that calls on individuals and institutions to embody the values of solidarity, giving, and shared responsibility.
Held at Space42 Arena in Al Raha, Abu Dhabi, the event aimed to highlight the essential role of workers in building the UAE’s success, from shaping the physical infrastructure of its cities to supporting the systems that keep them running every day. As part of Aldar’s belief that the welfare of workers is a cornerstone of sustainable, human-centered progress, the initiative outlines the importance of workers’ wellbeing and recognition.
As a token of gratitude and respect for their ongoing dedication, more than 1,600 volunteers from across the community came together to assemble and distribute 24,000 gift packages to workers across the UAE. The event drew participation from diverse groups, including student volunteers from Aldar Education schools, volunteers from Emirates Foundation’s Takatof programme, and Aldar employees, who joined in as part of the company’s commitment to community engagement. In total, the initiative contributed more than 6,500 volunteering hours, reflecting the collective spirit of giving and solidarity within the UAE community.
Volunteers contributed across three shifts, from 9am to 6pm, embodying the spirit of collective giving and collaboration that defines the Year of the Community. This initiative emphasised the importance of fostering a culture of teamwork and volunteerism, serving as a living example of collaboration between institutions and the community. It embodied the noble values upheld by the UAE’s vision, a compassionate and united society that never forgets those who build, give, and sow hope in every corner.
His Excellency Ahmed Taleb Al Shamsi, CEO of the Emirates Foundation, said: "At Emirates Foundation, we believe that humanitarian and volunteer work is one of the most impactful ways to foster social cohesion and reinforce the bonds that unite our society. Better Together not only reflects the deep appreciation our community holds for the workers who help shape our everyday lives, but also instills in every volunteer the enduring values of respect, empathy, and gratitude. Initiatives like this are at the heart of our mission to build a more connected, compassionate, and inclusive UAE."
Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group CEO of Aldar Properties, said: "This partnership is a testament to the unity that exists in local communities to champion and support the workers who are essential to economic progress in the UAE. This initiative builds on our shared ambitions of fostering an inclusive culture and we are humbled to be part of the many impactful activities planned for the Year of Community throughout 2025.”
“Emirates Foundation continues to foster a culture of teamwork and community collaboration through strategic partnerships and impactful humanitarian initiatives, strengthening a cohesive society rooted in the values of giving, solidarity, and appreciation for all who contribute to the nation’s growth and progress."
