Promoting Life Skills and Celebrating Youth Leadership Across the Emirates
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation Chairman His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh will visit the United Arab Emirates to highlight the Foundation’s global work on Non-formal Education and the development of essential life skills for young people. The visit spotlights the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to empowering youth and fostering the next generation of leaders throughout the Emirates and beyond.
During his visit, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh will deliver a keynote address as part of a high-level panel at the World Governments Summit, focusing on the future of skills and youth development. This prestigious event will bring together global thought leaders, educators, and policymakers to explore innovative approaches for preparing young people to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
In addition to his participation at the Summit, His Royal Highness will visit schools and meet educators in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai where The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is already making a tangible impact. These visits will provide opportunities for direct engagement with students, teachers, and Award Leaders, allowing HRH to witness first-hand the transformative effect of Non-formal Education programmes on youth confidence, resilience, and leadership.
The Duke of Edinburgh will also meet senior decision-makers, education leaders and government officials to strengthen partnerships that support youth leadership and skills development across the UAE. By facilitating dialogue and collaboration, these discussions aim to broaden access to Non-formal Education and create environments where every young person can achieve their full potential.
During the visit, HRH will have the opportunity to meet current Award participants and holders, celebrating their dedication, achievements, and commitment to personal growth. Nearly 100 schools in the UAE now offer the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, reflecting the nation’s enthusiasm for nurturing well-rounded, future-ready young people.
Accompanying HRH, and speaking ahead of the visit, Martin Houghton-Brown, Secretary General of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation commented, “We are delighted to be visiting the United Arab Emirates, a country that recognises the immense value of Non-formal Education and is investing in the life skills of its young people. Through the Award, we see the power of challenge, service, and adventure to inspire and shape future leaders.”
Local education partners also welcomed the announcement. “The presence of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh in the UAE reaffirms our shared goal of equipping youth with the skills needed for a dynamic future,” said a spokesperson from the Dubai Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). “We look forward to continued collaboration that places young people at the heart of educational progress.”
Edward Hobart CMG, His Majesty’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates said:
“The United Kingdom greatly values its partnership with the UAE in advancing youth leadership development. By working together and sharing best practices, we can empower young people with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in an increasingly complex world. Our collaboration is a testament to the shared vision of both nations to nurture the next generation of leaders.”
As the UAE continues to prioritise the development of future-ready skills and holistic learning, this visit signals a renewed vision for supporting youth leadership and expanding access across the region.
