The inaugural edition of the "Social Care Forum 2024," organized The Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi (DCD) in partnership with Deloitte Middle East, came to a close today. Under the theme "Fostering Innovation and Collaboration in Social Care," the event brought together leaders, key decision-makers, experts, and stakeholders from the social care sector.
The second day of the forum saw the presence of H.E. Dr. Mugheer Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi (DCD); H.E. Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority, Government of Dubai, H.E. Dr. Bushra Al Mulla, Director General at Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority; H.E. Salama Al Ameemi, Director General of the Family Care Authority; H.E. Abdullah Al Humaidan, Secretary General of the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination; H.E. Hessa Tahlak, Assistant Undersecretary for Social Development Sector at the Ministry of Community Development, along with several other officials from local and international organizations.
The forum’s second day opened with a keynote speech delivered by H.E. Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority, Government of Dubai highlighting the importance of nurturing the social care. In her keynote address, Her Excellency Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid focused on the importance of developing the workforce in the social sector using modern innovations. Her Excellency also addressed the new realities and challenges related to the social sector and emphasized the proactive interventions and measures needed to transform the challenges into opportunities for innovation and growth. Additionally, Her Excellency emphasized the need for social workers to have a range of skills and experiences related to digital competence, intercultural competence, crisis management, mental health, seniors care and the requirements of the silver economy, and the interdisciplinary cooperation and partnerships with various bodies and entities. Her Excellency concluded her speech by highlighting that social workers and their mental health need to be placed as a priority in order for them to carry out their tasks and responsibilities in an advanced and innovative manner.
The day also included a keynote on the global workforce challenges and importance of a talented workforce and their development. Several engaging workshops followed, including discussions on "Innovation in Social Service Delivery," where participants explored how technology can be harnessed to create meaningful change. The sessions also focused on the importance of delivering digital services and improving accessibility and efficiency.
Other interactive sessions delved into topics like "Digital Delivery of Social Services" and "Family-Centered Models of Social Care." The forum also hosted educational workshops on mental health awareness and a session on "Disability Assessment" and care programs for people of determination.
In his closing remarks, Mubarak Al Ameri, Executive Director of Social Licensing and Control at DCD, emphasized the forum’s role as a platform for sharing ideas and experiences. He noted that it had gathered some of the world’s leading experts to envision the future of social care and develop new strategies to improve the quality of life in Abu Dhabi. Al Ameri expressed his gratitude for the exceptional turnout, saying it reflected the growing importance of social care on a global scale.
“We plan to build on this momentum,” Al Ameri added. “Our goal is to attract even more experts and specialists in the future to find innovative, sustainable solutions to social challenges and enhance social policies in the emirate.” He emphasized that the forum had been instrumental in fostering a shared vision for the future of social care and had provided an opportunity to exchange solutions that can be adapted to today’s needs. The discussions also laid the groundwork for tackling future challenges in social care while raising awareness about the importance of creating more flexible and responsive systems to meet the long-term needs of individuals and families.
Al Ameri went on to announce plans for the forum to grow into a global event, becoming a recurring international platform in Abu Dhabi to promote ongoing dialogue on social care and innovation. An official announcement is expected soon, positioning Abu Dhabi as a leader in this critical field.
Reflecting on the broader vision for social care, Al Ameri said, “Our global vision for social care is to build sustainable and inclusive communities where everyone can thrive. This means offering high-quality care services that support the most vulnerable, while ensuring a balance between social development and economic growth.” He added that by fostering cooperation between the public and private sectors and civil society, the aim is to achieve lasting, innovative solutions in service delivery.
Al Ameri praised Abu Dhabi for its success in balancing social and economic progress, supported by its advanced infrastructure and robust programs in healthcare and education. “This makes Abu Dhabi one of the best places to live and work, as the emirate remains committed to excellence and well-being,” he said.
The forum featured over 40 speakers, including global thought leaders, and hosted 10 workshops and interactive sessions designed to empower professionals in the social care sector. It also included an exhibition with over 10 participating government, private, and nonprofit entities, showcasing the latest innovations in social care. The event attracted a notable audience of local and international figures, as well as professionals from across sectors. Their presence reflected the growing interest in advancing and innovating within the social care sector. The forum also welcomed academics and researchers eager to explore new trends and practices, highlighting the event's role in shaping the future of social care.