UAE’s Strength Lies in Its Diversity and Cohesion, Sheikh Nahyan Says on International Day for Tolerance
Abu Dhabi, The Gulf Observer: Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, has reaffirmed that the United Arab Emirates derives its strength from its diverse population and the deep integration and cohesion among all citizens and residents. He stressed that tolerance in the UAE is not merely a slogan, but a lived reality experienced by every individual in the country.
In remarks to the media marking the International Day for Tolerance, observed annually on 16 November, Sheikh Nahyan said that President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan places the preservation of authentic Emirati values and the unity of society at the forefront of his national priorities.
He noted that this approach is rooted in the legacy of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who instilled in society the principles of love, peace, and human coexistence — values that continue to be strengthened by the country’s leadership today. These principles, he said, form an essential part of the UAE’s identity and its global message.
New Initiatives Ahead of Year of Family 2026
Sheikh Nahyan revealed that, in line with the leadership’s declaration of 2026 as the Year of Family, the Ministry of Tolerance will launch a series of innovative initiatives aimed at reinforcing the values of tolerance within the family unit, which he described as the foundation of a strong and prosperous society.
These initiatives will reflect the cultural diversity of the UAE’s community and the way families live within a globally interconnected environment. He added that this year, the Ministry is launching the National Festival of Tolerance & Coexistence under the theme “Hand in Hand,” in alignment with the Year of Community.
Entrenching the UAE as a Global Model of Tolerance
Sheikh Nahyan highlighted the Ministry’s ongoing efforts since its establishment to position the UAE as a global model of tolerance. Following the Cabinet’s adoption of the National Tolerance Programme in 2016, the Ministry has implemented numerous initiatives, including the annual National Festival of Tolerance, which brings together all cultural components of UAE society through arts, sports, seminars, and community activities.
He said the festival reaffirms that the UAE’s cultural diversity is a source of strength and that tolerance is essential to preserving this collective human wealth.
The Minister also noted the success of initiatives such as the Government as an Incubator for Tolerance, which promotes values of empathy, justice, cooperation, equality, and dialogue within the government work environment, and the Tolerance Knights Programme, designed to prepare a new generation capable of leading community initiatives that promote coexistence.
Global Cooperation and International Outreach
Sheikh Nahyan reiterated the UAE’s commitment to advancing productive cooperation with countries and institutions worldwide to build a comprehensive global framework for tolerance. He highlighted the launch of the Global Tolerance Alliance during Expo 2020 Dubai as an example of the country’s leadership in fostering international networks that support human fraternity, peace, and coexistence.
This initiative includes exchanging expertise with nations, religious leaders, thinkers, and global institutions, and launching joint projects focused on education and scientific research.
He emphasized that the UAE consistently joins resident communities in celebrating their national days, reflecting the leadership’s belief that the country’s strength lies in its diversity and the unity of all residents in supporting national development and economic progress.
Youth at the Heart of the UAE’s Tolerance Vision
Sheikh Nahyan underscored that youth remain a strategic priority in national initiatives, stating that they carry the UAE’s message of peace and human values to the world. The Ministry works closely with government entities, institutions, and community groups to equip young people with the skills to promote tolerance and coexistence at both national and international levels.
“Youth are the hope and future of the nation,” he said, emphasising the shared responsibility of preparing them to uphold authentic Emirati values, human fraternity, and peaceful coexistence.
Commitment to Global Peace and Stability
Affirming the UAE’s long-standing commitment to the path laid by Sheikh Zayed, Sheikh Nahyan said the nation believes that tolerance is the foundation of sustainable development and that societies built on mutual respect are best positioned to achieve lasting prosperity and stability.
In the face of global challenges, he added, the UAE continues to play an active role in promoting dialogue, rejecting extremism, and calling on nations to adopt peace and tolerance as essential pillars of security and societal well-being.
