Shamis Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Chairman of the Department of Community Development Abu Dhabi (DCD), visited Athar+, a specialised hub that supports social entrepreneurship in the emirate. The visit reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening the social sector and encouraging innovative solutions to community challenges.
- Athar+ supports social enterprises and non-profit organisations
- Leaders review emerging social innovation projects
- Social entrepreneurship seen as a key development tool
- Inspired by the legacy of Sheikh Zayed
- Ma’an highlights importance of community collaboration
- About the Department of Community Development
DCD oversees and regulates the social sector in Abu Dhabi. The department works to build a stronger ecosystem for social impact and community development.
Athar+ supports social enterprises and non-profit organisations
Athar+ launched in 2025 under the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an. The hub provides a support platform for social enterprises, non-profit organisations, and public benefit institutions. The facility offers co-working spaces, mentorship, and capacity-building programmes. It also encourages collaboration between social organisations and community partners.
These initiatives help social purpose entities expand their work and increase their positive impact across Abu Dhabi.
Leaders review emerging social innovation projects
The visit took place on the eve of Zayed Humanitarian Day. Al Dhaheri was accompanied by Hamad Ali Al Dhaheri, Undersecretary of DCD, and Abdullah Al Ameri, Director General of the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an. During the visit, the delegation toured the facility and reviewed several projects developed by social entrepreneurs.
These initiatives focus on areas such as financial literacy, healthcare, sustainability, economic development, and social inclusion.
Social entrepreneurship seen as a key development tool
Al Dhaheri said social entrepreneurship plays a vital role in addressing community challenges.
He noted that social purpose organisations provide innovative solutions that help improve quality of life. Supporting these initiatives also strengthens collaboration between government, private sector, and community organisations.
According to him, empowering entrepreneurs and institutions helps turn community ideas into practical and sustainable solutions.
Inspired by the legacy of Sheikh Zayed
Al Dhaheri said these initiatives reflect the humanitarian values promoted by the late Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
He added that Zayed Humanitarian Day is an opportunity to reflect on the country’s legacy of giving and community service. The UAE continues to promote social responsibility and encourage community participation in building a more inclusive society.
Ma’an highlights importance of community collaboration
Abdullah Al Ameri said the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an aims to unite community efforts to create meaningful social impact.
He explained that the authority supports social entrepreneurs and innovative initiatives that address key social priorities in Abu Dhabi. These programmes help strengthen social responsibility while improving quality of life across the emirate.
About the Department of Community Development
The Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi was established in 2018 as the regulatory body for the social sector in the emirate.
The department develops policies and strategies that improve social services and strengthen community cohesion. It also conducts research and social studies to understand community needs and design effective development programmes. Through these initiatives, DCD aims to build empowered individuals, stronger families, and a more inclusive society.
