UAE expands youth empowerment efforts across key sectors

The UAE is highlighting its youth empowerment efforts in sustainability, technology and international development as the country marks International Youth Day on August 12.

The Federal Youth Authority, along with youth councils across the country, is giving young people more opportunities to share their ideas and play a role in shaping initiatives and solutions for society.

In 2026, the Federal Youth Authority launched the 'Ghatareef' National Readiness Programme, designed to prepare Emirati secondary school graduates with skills and knowledge for their academic, professional and family lives.

In the clean energy sector, Masdar’s 'Sustainability Ambassadors' programme selected 50 young people from 10 nationalities for its 2026 cycle.

Participants are receiving training in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, the circular economy and digital skills.

The UAE is also expanding opportunities for young people across the Arab world. The Arab Youth Centre and UAE Space Agency launched the first Arab Youth Space Hackathon, supporting young people in space science and advanced technology.

Internationally, new initiatives are focused on education and employment.

In January 2026, the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation inaugurated the Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Institute for Vocational Education in Senegal, with a capacity of around 1,000 students. 

In February 2026, The Digital School and the Sawiris Foundation for Social Development, with the support of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, launched the 'Jusur Al Foras' (Bridges of Opportunity) programme, aiming to equip 100,000 young people with skills and connect at least 10,000 with job opportunities.

This scheme was expanded in July to support digital education across several African countries, with plans to establish 100 digital learning spaces and reach more than 500,000 people.

The UAE says these efforts reflect its commitment to giving young people the skills, opportunities and platforms they need to contribute to sustainable development, both in the UAE and beyond.