UAE Embassy in Greece and Webster University Host Panel on Youth Empowerment

As part of its ongoing commitment to fostering academic and cultural collaboration, the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Athens partnered with Webster University to host a panel discussion focused on the UAE’s efforts in youth empowerment and future leadership.

The event, held at the university’s Athens campus, brought together students, faculty, and professionals to engage in meaningful dialogue on the importance of investing in young people.

In his opening remarks, H.E. Dr. Ali Obaid Al Dhaheri, the UAE Ambassador to Greece, highlighted the central role that youth play in the UAE’s national development strategy.

“Empowering youth is not merely a policy—it is a foundational pillar of the UAE’s vision for the future,” he said.

“Through education, innovation, and global partnerships, we aim to equip our youth with the tools they need to lead in a rapidly changing world.”

The UAE has consistently ranked among the leading nations in youth development. According to the Arab Youth Survey 2023, the UAE has been chosen for over 12 consecutive years as the top country for young Arabs to live in and emulate.

This reflects the country’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for youth through policy, education, and innovation.

Some of the UAE’s key youth empowerment initiatives include:

• The establishment of the Federal Youth Authority and appointment of a Minister of State for Youth Affairs – one of the world’s youngest ministers.

• Launch of youth hubs across the country to foster creativity, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement.

• Strategic programs like the National Youth Agenda and UAE Youth Global Councils, which aim to give young people a voice in shaping policies at national and international levels.

• Substantial investments in STEM education, digital literacy, and future skills, with initiatives such as the “100 Coders Every Day” campaign and partnerships with leading tech companies.

The Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Athens, H.E. Dr. Ali Obaid Al Dhaheri, surrounded by the participants.

The panel featured speakers from diverse academic and professional backgrounds who emphasized the importance of mentorship, skills development, and intercultural exchange.

Discussions revolved around practical strategies for youth engagement and the role of educational institutions in nurturing talent and ambition.

The event reflects the UAE’s broader mission to build bridges with international partners and to share its vision of inclusive development—one that places young people at the heart of progress.

It also reaffirms the country’s belief in the transformative power of youth to shape a better and more sustainable future.