The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has honoured Sheikha Dr. Shamma Bint Mohammed Bin Khalid Al Nahyan, Chairperson of the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalid Al Nahyan Cultural and Educational Institutions. She was recognised as a pioneer in social and community work in the UAE, reflecting her strong role in cultural, educational, and youth development.
A Special GCC Honour In Kuwait
The award was announced at the 11th meeting of GCC Ministers of Social Affairs and Development, held in Kuwait. The event was organised by the GCC Secretariat General and attended by senior leaders, ministers, and cultural figures.
Among the attendees were Sheikh Fahad Yusuf Saud Al-Sabah, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of Kuwait, Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, GCC Secretary-General, and Dr. Amthal Al Huwailah, Kuwait’s Minister of Social Affairs and Family and Childhood Affairs. Ministers of social development from all GCC member states were also present.
The award is part of the GCC’s wider goal to honour leaders in social development and encourage new ideas and community projects across the Gulf.
UAE Ministry Praises Her Contribution
The UAE Ministry of Community Empowerment nominated Sheikha Shamma for this award. The ministry praised her for her long-standing community service, her work with youth, and her efforts to preserve Emirati culture and values.
The ministry also highlighted the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalid Al Nahyan Cultural and Educational Institutions as an inspiring model in the region. These institutions stand out because of their wide range of programs and their ability to reach people from all parts of society.
Sheikha Shamma’s Words Of Appreciation
Sheikha Shamma expressed her gratitude for the honour. She said the award is not only a recognition but also a responsibility to continue her mission.
She stressed that her work reflects the UAE leadership’s vision of empowering society and building a future where culture, education, and community development go hand in hand. For her, it is about serving people and creating positive change.
The Work Of The Cultural And Educational Institutions
The Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalid Al Nahyan Cultural and Educational Institutions have played a major role in education, culture, and youth empowerment. These institutions carry out many projects that support society, including:
- Youth programs that prepare young Emiratis to face global challenges.
- Cultural projects that preserve traditions and promote Emirati identity.
- Educational initiatives that improve knowledge, skills, and creativity.
- Community events that bring people together and strengthen social values.
These programs make the institutions a model for cultural and educational work not only in the UAE but also across the GCC.
GCC’s Broader Vision For Community Leaders
The GCC has always recognised that social and cultural development is key to the region’s future. By honouring leaders like Sheikha Shamma, the GCC hopes to inspire more innovative ideas and cross-border cooperation.
This recognition also helps share successful stories and models of community work, encouraging other leaders to follow similar paths in their own countries. It fits into the GCC’s goal of building a region based on unity, culture, and knowledge.
A Strong Message On Women’s Leadership
The honour for Sheikha Shamma also sends a powerful message about women’s role in leadership. Women in the UAE and across the GCC are making great progress in education, culture, and social empowerment.
The UAE, in particular, has encouraged women to take leading roles in all areas of society. This recognition proves that women leaders are shaping the future of the Gulf and inspiring the next generation.
UAE As A Leader In Social Development
The UAE has become a regional leader in cultural and social innovation. From Abu Dhabi’s cultural initiatives to Dubai’s global projects, the UAE has shown how tradition and modernity can work together.
Honouring Sheikha Shamma is also an honour for the UAE itself, as it proves the country’s commitment to empowering people, preserving culture, and building knowledge-based societies.
The UAE continues to be seen as a role model for the wider region, especially in areas of youth empowerment, culture, and education.
Building A Lasting Legacy
Sheikha Shamma’s journey is far from over. Her recognition by the GCC is both an achievement and a challenge. It encourages her and others to continue investing in culture, education, and community building.
Her work shows that true social development is about preparing future generations, protecting identity, and creating opportunities for everyone. Through her leadership, the UAE is not just growing it is inspiring the entire Gulf region.
A Shared Honour For UAE And The GCC
The recognition of Sheikha Dr. Shamma Bint Mohammed Al Nahyan is more than an individual award. It is a milestone for the UAE and for the GCC as a whole.
Her contributions in cultural work, education, and youth empowerment reflect the values of leadership, service, and unity that the Gulf holds dear. This honour also shows the GCC’s commitment to supporting leaders who bring lasting change to their societies.
By celebrating Sheikha Shamma’s achievements, the GCC highlights the importance of community empowerment as the foundation for a stronger future. The UAE, with its forward-looking vision and cultural pride, continues to lead the way in regional social development.
