Celebrating Identity: UAE Observes World Children’s Day

In a defining event at its Abu Dhabi headquarters, the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood commemorated World Children’s Day today, focusing on the 2025 theme: The Right to Identity and National Culture. This initiative underscores the UAE’s steadfast dedication to safeguarding children's rights while fostering their sense of belonging.

Taking place annually on November 20, World Children’s Day champions the principles outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. This year’s gathering is in harmony with national efforts under Wadeema’s Law and the UAE Year of Community, emphasizing unity, social cohesion, and the essence of active citizenship.

Throughout the year, the council has collaborated with various sectors—government, education, culture, and community—to embed the core values of Emirati Children’s Day. The goal of these outreach efforts is to inspire young individuals to comprehend and cherish their national identity, recognizing the impact of cultural awareness on their personalities and social interactions.

The chosen theme underscores the necessity for children to engage with their heritage, embracing aspects like the Arabic language and traditional customs. The council articulated that participation in cultural activities bolsters healthy development, enabling children to express themselves, relate to others with confidence, and cultivate a robust self-identity.

This year's initiatives also inspire intergenerational connections—uniting children and elders to share stories, document cultural legacies, and preserve traditions in accessible ways for the younger generation. Additionally, the council advocated for Arabic literacy to enhance children's ties to their mother tongue and supported various initiatives celebrating Emirati heritage, such as poetry, proverbs, and traditional crafts.

The council emphasized that fostering a cultural identity contributes significantly to academic performance, emotional well-being, and family dynamics. Children deeply rooted in their culture often forge stronger relationships, exhibit resilience, and develop a broader, more global perspective.

Moreover, the council has introduced its newly launched Emirati Children’s Day Guide, designed to illustrate how cultural engagement aids children in understanding their surroundings while promoting empathy and respect for diversity. These endeavors aim to ensure that subsequent generations uphold the UAE’s rich heritage with pride, confidence, and a meaningful sense of belonging.