The Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority has completed comprehensive preparations to launch Civil Defence Week in alignment with the Year of Family 2026. The initiative will coincide with World Civil Defense Day, observed annually on 1 March, reinforcing the Authority’s commitment to safety, prevention, and community wellbeing across the UAE.
Civil Defence Week has been designed as more than a series of awareness activities. It reflects a broader national vision that recognises the family as the cornerstone of a stable and resilient society. By aligning its safety programs with the goals of the Year of Family, the Authority aims to strengthen family cohesion, deepen awareness of everyday safety, and enhance community stability through practical, people-centred initiatives.
Aligning Safety with National Priorities
The Year of Family 2026 places strong emphasis on nurturing stable households, reinforcing shared values, and fostering a sense of belonging within society. In response, Civil Defence Week activities have been carefully structured to align with these national priorities, ensuring that safety awareness becomes an integral part of daily family life rather than a reactive measure.
The Authority’s approach recognises that strong families are built through consistent care, shared responsibility, and informed decision-making. Safety, in this context, is not limited to emergency response but extends to prevention, preparedness, and the creation of secure environments where families can thrive with confidence.
Families at the Heart of Community Resilience
At the core of Civil Defence Week is the belief that family development begins at home and grows outward into the wider community. The programs developed for 2026 aim to empower families with the knowledge and tools needed to live safely, while also fostering a culture of mutual support and collective responsibility.
By focusing on prevention and awareness, the Authority seeks to reduce risks before incidents occur, contributing to long-term stability and peace of mind for households. This proactive mindset supports the development of confident generations who are aware of their surroundings, prepared for emergencies, and grounded in national values and identity.
Leadership Perspective on the Year of Family
Brigadier Salem Abdullah bin Barrak Al Dhaheri, Director General of Civil Defence, has emphasised that the designation of 2026 as the Year of Family reflects a forward-looking national vision. According to him, the family is the foundation upon which societal development, sustainable growth, and quality of life are built.
He noted that Civil Defence efforts naturally complement this vision by promoting safety awareness and preventive practices that protect lives and property. Through targeted initiatives, the Authority continues to support families in creating secure environments that encourage growth, wellbeing, and social harmony.
Three Pillars Guiding Civil Defence Week
Civil Defence Week 2026 has been structured around three key pillars that directly align with the priorities of the Year of Family. Each pillar addresses a different aspect of family and community life, translating national objectives into meaningful, actionable programs.
Roots: Strengthening Belonging and Balance
The first pillar, Roots, focuses on reinforcing a sense of belonging and promoting work-life balance within families. Central to this pillar is the Family Hour framework, which encourages families to dedicate quality time to one another, strengthening emotional connections and mutual understanding.
By highlighting the importance of balance between professional responsibilities and family life, this pillar supports healthier households and contributes to overall social stability. A strong sense of belonging within the family unit also enhances individual wellbeing and resilience, making communities more cohesive and supportive.
Bonds: Enhancing Cohesion and Home Safety
The second pillar, Bonds, centres on family cohesion and home safety awareness. Recognising that the home is where safety habits are formed, the Authority has prioritised programs that educate families on everyday risks and practical preventive measures.
These initiatives focus on fostering open communication within households, encouraging shared responsibility for safety, and building awareness around potential hazards. By strengthening bonds through collective action, families become better equipped to protect one another and respond calmly and effectively in challenging situations.
Growth: Supporting Sustainable and Safe Practices
The third pillar, Growth, looks beyond the household to the wider community, supporting sustainable development through initiatives that encourage safe daily practices. This pillar emphasises the role of individuals and families in contributing to a safer society through informed choices and responsible behaviour.
Community-based activities under this pillar aim to instil a culture of safety that extends across neighbourhoods, workplaces, and public spaces. By linking personal safety habits to national sustainability goals, the Authority reinforces the idea that long-term growth depends on collective awareness and proactive engagement.
From Vision to Practical Action
Through Civil Defence Week 2026, the Authority seeks to translate the aspirations of the Year of Family into tangible outcomes. Each activity has been designed to deliver practical value, whether through education, engagement, or community participation.
The focus on prevention and preparedness ensures that families are not only informed but also confident in applying safety principles in their daily lives. This practical approach helps embed safety as a shared value, reinforcing family cohesion while contributing to broader societal resilience.
Building a Resilient and Sustainable Society
The alignment of Civil Defence Week with the Year of Family underscores a shared national commitment to building a resilient and sustainable society. By placing families at the centre of safety initiatives, the Authority recognises their vital role in shaping future generations and maintaining social stability.
As World Civil Defense Day on 1 March marks the official launch of these activities, the message is clear: safety begins at home, grows through awareness, and strengthens communities when families work together. Through this integrated approach, Civil Defence Week 2026 stands as a meaningful step toward a safer, more connected, and more resilient UAE.
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