A Unified Vision to Strengthen Emirati Identity
The United Arab Emirates has taken a decisive step toward strengthening its national fabric with the formation of the UAE National Identity Committee. The decision was issued by Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, who also serves as Chairman of the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council.
The newly established committee will be chaired by Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice-Chairperson of the same council. Its creation reflects a forward-looking national commitment to deepen Emirati identity, reinforce shared values, and ensure a unified approach across federal and local institutions.
At a time when the UAE continues to evolve socially, economically, and culturally, the initiative seeks to ensure that progress remains firmly rooted in a strong sense of belonging and national pride.
National Identity Strategy at the Core
The committee’s primary mandate is to oversee the National Identity Strategy and monitor its implementation at the national level. This responsibility goes beyond coordination—it involves aligning policies, harmonizing initiatives, and ensuring that all efforts contribute meaningfully to a cohesive national vision.
By serving as a central reference point, the committee will act as a national umbrella to prevent duplication of programs and encourage integration between various projects related to identity. In a country known for rapid innovation and institutional efficiency, this move aims to streamline efforts while maximizing impact.
A key priority will be codifying the pillars of national identity. This means clearly defining core values, unifying terminology, and establishing a structured framework that can guide institutions across priority sectors. From education and culture to media and youth engagement, the strategy will be embedded into everyday systems and practices.
The goal is not simply to articulate identity, but to make it lived, visible, and measurable.
Defining the Pillars of Emirati Identity
Central to the committee’s work will be defining what constitutes the essence of Emirati identity in a modern context. The UAE’s journey—from its founding to its emergence as a global hub—has been shaped by leadership, resilience, cultural heritage, tolerance, and ambition.
The committee will codify these elements into clear identity pillars and core values. By doing so, it will establish a unified national reference framework that institutions can adopt. This structured methodology will help embed identity principles into policies, programs, and long-term strategies.
Importantly, the initiative seeks to balance tradition with modernity. While preserving heritage and cultural authenticity, it also embraces innovation, global openness, and forward-thinking governance—traits that have defined the UAE’s remarkable growth story.
Launching a National Pride and Adoption Index
One of the most innovative aspects of the committee’s mandate is the development of a national index designed to measure community adoption of and pride in the national identity.
This index will serve as a practical tool to assess how deeply identity initiatives resonate with society. It will evaluate awareness, engagement, and the impact of various projects under the National Identity Strategy.
By introducing measurable benchmarks, the UAE reinforces its data-driven approach to governance. The index will help identify strengths, address gaps, and refine future initiatives. It transforms national identity from an abstract concept into a measurable, evolving national asset.
Such an approach ensures that identity-building is not symbolic, but strategic and results-oriented.
Crafting a Unified National Narrative
In addition to policy alignment and measurement tools, the committee will lead efforts to develop a unified national narrative. This includes designing and implementing integrated communication plans that amplify the presence of national identity across traditional and digital media platforms.
The aim is to ensure that identity values are consistently reflected in storytelling, public messaging, and cultural expression. By leveraging modern and interactive platforms, the committee intends to reach all segments of society—from youth and families to professionals and creatives.
A unified narrative does not limit diversity; rather, it celebrates it within a shared framework of belonging. The UAE’s multicultural society thrives on coexistence and collaboration, and the national narrative will emphasize unity, mutual respect, and shared ambition.
Through coordinated communication strategies, identity becomes part of daily conversations, community engagement, and national celebrations.
A Cross-Sector Leadership Team
The composition of the National Identity Committee reflects its comprehensive mandate. It brings together leaders from culture, media, economy, youth affairs, religious institutions, and strategic governance.
Among its members are Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture; Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism; and Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs.
Other members include Sheikha Hessa bint Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan; Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Authority; Rashed Saeed Al Ameri, Advisor at the Presidential Office for Strategic Affairs; Samira Murshid Al Remeithi, Secretary-General of the Presidential Protocol and Strategic Narrative Authority; Hajer Ahmed Al Thehli, Secretary-General of the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council; Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Chairman of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat; and Hamad Abdullah Al Zaabi, Director-General of the National Projects Office at the Presidential Court.
The National Projects Office at the Presidential Court will serve as the Secretariat of the committee, providing strategic and administrative support, coordinating meetings, and ensuring follow-up on decisions and recommendations.
This cross-sector representation underscores the understanding that national identity touches every sphere of society—from culture and media to youth engagement and economic policy.
Part of a Broader National Vision
The establishment of the committee forms part of the activation of the National Identity Strategy, developed in partnership between the Ministry of Culture and the National Projects Office at the Presidential Court during the UAE Government Annual Meetings.
Operating under the umbrella of the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council, the committee ensures coherence in national directions and institutional practices. It also aligns with the UAE’s broader governance philosophy—integrated planning, measurable outcomes, and future-focused leadership.
By institutionalizing identity through a dedicated body, the UAE signals that national belonging is not merely a cultural aspiration but a strategic priority.
A Future Rooted in Belonging
The formation of the UAE National Identity Committee represents more than an administrative decision. It reflects a commitment to safeguarding the nation’s cultural essence while embracing global progress.
As the UAE continues its journey as a regional and international leader, strengthening national identity ensures that development remains anchored in shared values. Through defined pillars, measurable indicators, and a unified narrative, the initiative aims to cultivate pride, cohesion, and long-term resilience.
Ultimately, the committee’s work will shape how future generations understand what it means to be Emirati—confident in heritage, united in purpose, and inspired by a collective vision for the future.
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