The Ministry of Community Empowerment in the United Arab Emirates has issued Ministerial Decision No. (13) of 2025, officially establishing the Emergency Safety and Security Association.

This marks the first association of its kind in the UAE, dedicated to fostering a culture of safety and enhancing community preparedness to address emergencies, reflecting a commitment to serve the community at a national level.

The launch of the association coincides with the declaration of 2025 as the 'Year of Community,' under the slogan 'Hand in Hand.' This national initiative aims to strengthen community bonds and promote cooperation, belonging, and the preservation of cultural heritage, encouraging effective participation from all individuals through community service, volunteerism, and impactful initiatives that instill a sense of collective responsibility and drive collective progress in the nation.

The initiative to found the association, which will be headquartered in the Emirate of Sharjah, was driven by a group of national experts specializing in safety and emergency management.

They emphasize the importance of collective action and shared responsibility across all sectors in reinforcing the concepts of prevention and safety, thereby supporting empowerment efforts across various fields.

The association's mandate includes a significant role in raising awareness among community members regarding safety concepts and preventive measures.

This will be achieved through organizing awareness campaigns and sustainable activities targeting different demographics within the community, including various age groups.

Additionally, the association plans to offer specialized training programs aimed at developing capabilities in the field of safety and emergency readiness, while also fostering collaboration with various governmental, academic, and private entities to expand strategic partnerships that will enhance community preparedness for diverse emergency situations.