Abu Dhabi to Host Second Social Care Forum in September

Photo: WAM

As part of the “Year of Community 2025”, Abu Dhabi is preparing to host the second edition of its Social Care Forum. The event, organised by the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi, will take place from 24th to 25th September at Hilton Yas Abu Dhabi.

The forum is being held under the theme: “Future-Ready Social Care: People, Practice, and Policy.” It aims to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s social care system and improve the overall quality of life for residents.

A Bigger and Better Forum Than Before

After the success of the first Social Care Forum in 2024, this year’s edition promises to be even more impactful. It will serve as a platform to talk about new ideas, solutions, and challenges in the field of social care.

Mubarak Al Ameri, Executive Director of the Licensing and Social Control Sector, shared that the first edition helped bring together professionals from around the world. “This year, we want to deepen these discussions and increase participation so that we can truly shape the future of social care,” he said.

Supporting the ‘Year of Community’

The forum supports the broader goals of the UAE’s “Year of the Community 2025.” It focuses on bringing people together, sharing knowledge, and improving social services for everyone—from children and youth to families and the elderly.

This aligns with Abu Dhabi’s vision of building a stronger, more supportive community that values wellbeing, equality, and collaboration.

Gathering Experts from Around the World

The forum will gather local and international experts, policy-makers, specialists, and decision-makers. Together, they will explore current and future trends in social care. This includes better use of technology, smarter policies, and more efficient care practices.

Attendees will get a chance to hear from some of the best minds in the field and contribute to building a more inclusive social care system.

Exploring the Future of Social Policies and Services

One of the main goals of the forum is to discuss how Abu Dhabi can build a social care system that is ready for the future. This includes:

• Improving social policies

• Empowering the workforce

• Using data and technology to offer better services

• Building strong partnerships between government and private sectors

These ideas will be explored in detail through presentations, panel discussions, and hands-on training sessions.

Focus on Technology and Innovation

Technology will play a big role in this year’s discussions. Topics will include:

• The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in delivering care

• Digital transformation in the social sector

• Early risk detection tools

• Improving decision-making with data

These innovations can make care services more efficient, personalised, and accessible for everyone.

Topics That Matter to Families and Communities

Apart from technology, the forum will also address real-world issues that families and communities face today. These include:

• Child protection

• Family bonding and cohesion

• Care for the elderly

• Inclusive care models for people with special needs

• Youth empowerment and personal development

The sessions are designed to provide actionable insights and promote solutions that truly impact people’s lives.

Attracting and Supporting a Skilled Workforce

One of the key challenges in the social care sector is building a skilled and dedicated workforce. The forum will discuss:

• Ways to attract young talent

• Creating supportive and healthy work environments

• Encouraging professional development through training

• Promoting proactive support programs for different life stages

These steps are important for making sure that social care workers feel empowered and motivated to serve the community.

Special Training Sessions and Certification

The forum will also include a dedicated training programme, where attendees can earn certifications in several important areas such as:

• Artificial Intelligence in social care

• Trauma-informed case management

• Family-centred care

• Early risk detection and prevention

These certified tracks will help professionals upgrade their skills and stay updated with the latest developments in the field.

Engaging the Community Through Discussions

The event will also include interactive sessions, where attendees can take part in live discussions and ask questions. These sessions will focus on:

• Family empowerment strategies

• Youth challenges and growth

• Elder care programs

• The impact of social policies on daily life

These community-focused discussions aim to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and valued in the decision-making process.

A Commitment to a Better Future

By hosting this forum, the Department of Community Development shows its ongoing commitment to building an inclusive, compassionate, and well-prepared society in Abu Dhabi. The aim is to:

• Improve quality of life

• Promote equal opportunities for all

• Encourage cross-sector collaboration

• Bring global best practices to the UAE

The Social Care Forum is more than just an event—it is part of a long-term effort to create meaningful change in the lives of people across the emirate.

The second edition of the Social Care Forum is expected to be the largest and most impactful event of its kind in Abu Dhabi. With a strong focus on innovation, community, and collaboration, it is a step forward in ensuring that every individual—no matter their age or background—receives the care and support they deserve.

Whether you are a policymaker, social worker, academic, student, or community member, this forum is a chance to be part of a movement that is shaping the future of social care in the UAE and beyond.