Sharjah Community Progress Through Law at IGCF 2025

During the opening day of the 14th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) 2025, a key session titled “A Voice from the Community… Real-Life Examples” shed light on how Sharjah is building its future on strong legal foundations. His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council (SCC), shared his thoughts on the crucial role legislation plays in community development and in ensuring the wellbeing of citizens.

The session was attended by Sheikh Majid bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Head of the Districts Affairs Department, and other senior officials, highlighting the importance of connecting government institutions with the people they serve.

Legislation as the Foundation of Development

Dr. Al Nuaimi emphasized that legislation is not just a set of rules but the foundation for shaping a prosperous and sustainable society. He said that clear and effective laws allow institutions to operate efficiently, serve the public better, and plan for the future with confidence.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel 

He noted that Sharjah’s success is closely linked to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who ensures that legislation evolves according to the needs of the people. “Clear legislation and institutions working within it give us confidence that we are moving in the right direction,” said Dr. Al Nuaimi. He explained that institutions built on solid legal foundations are able to guide the future, while those without such foundations may struggle or even become irrelevant over time.

This approach highlights the importance of rules that are not just written but actively support human wellbeing and community development.

The Role of Institutions and Community Engagement

Dr. Al Nuaimi spoke at length about how institutions in Sharjah maintain continuous engagement with the communities they serve. According to him, development is most effective when organizations understand the real needs of people. This requires ongoing dialogue and collaboration between government departments and local communities.

The Districts Affairs Department, in particular, was highlighted as an example of a community-focused institution. Dr. Al Nuaimi described it as “the umbilical cord” of Sharjah’s development, connecting the government directly with citizens. He explained that this department has a unique role because it identifies where development and support are needed most.

Through constant interaction between the Districts Affairs Department and the SCC, the government can plan projects that truly reflect the aspirations of Sharjah’s residents. This collaboration ensures that resources are used wisely and that public needs are met efficiently.

Proactive Planning for Emergencies

Another key point Dr. Al Nuaimi stressed was the importance of proactive thinking, especially during crises such as natural disasters or other emergencies. He explained that council members and community representatives can provide valuable information to authorities, helping them anticipate challenges and respond quickly.

This proactive approach not only protects lives but also strengthens trust between the government and citizens. Dr. Al Nuaimi encouraged people to participate actively in planning for both emergencies and everyday social challenges, saying that community involvement is vital for the overall resilience of society.

Looking to the Future with Impactful Projects

Dr. Al Nuaimi concluded his session by focusing on Sharjah’s vision for the future. He highlighted the importance of launching impactful projects that can set an example for the entire Arab world.

He mentioned the UAE’s achievements in areas such as sustainability and food security, which have become a source of pride for the region. These initiatives, he said, demonstrate how a clear vision, backed by effective laws and community engagement, can lead to meaningful progress that benefits everyone. “We must work on projects that not only serve our people today but also guide the Arab world into a brighter, more sustainable future,” Dr. Al Nuaimi emphasized.

This statement underlines Sharjah’s commitment to being a leader in regional development, showing that the emirate aims to create solutions that are innovative, sustainable, and impactful.

Why Sharjah’s Approach Stands Out

Sharjah’s model of development is distinctive because it balances strong legislation, proactive institutions, and community participation. Each of these elements is connected, creating a system where the government can respond effectively to societal needs while planning for the long term.

• Legislation ensures that rules are clear and fair, allowing institutions to operate efficiently.

• Institutions like the Districts Affairs Department act as bridges between the government and citizens, identifying areas where help or development is needed.

• Community Engagement allows residents to share their needs and insights, helping authorities plan better and respond faster in times of crisis.

This holistic approach is designed not only to maintain stability but also to drive progress and innovation. It encourages citizens to be partners in development, ensuring that growth is inclusive and sustainable.

The Broader Impact on the Arab World

Dr. Al Nuaimi also reminded the audience that Sharjah’s experiences can serve as a model for other Arab countries. By combining clear legislation with strong institutions and active community participation, Sharjah has shown that it is possible to achieve sustainable development, social wellbeing, and regional leadership.

He highlighted that other Arab nations can learn from Sharjah’s success in areas like environmental sustainability, food security, and emergency preparedness. The idea is that lessons from Sharjah can inspire solutions that benefit entire communities across the region.

The session “A Voice from the Community… Real-Life Examples” at IGCF 2025 offered deep insights into how Sharjah continues to grow and develop. Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi’s message was clear: legislation, institutions, and community engagement are all essential to shaping a better future.

Sharjah’s model shows that effective laws, proactive governance, and continuous dialogue with citizens create a strong foundation for societal progress. It also emphasizes the importance of planning for the future and addressing emergencies proactively, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all residents.

Through these measures, Sharjah not only strengthens its own community but also provides a shining example for other nations in the Arab world, proving that legal foundations, institutional efficiency, and active citizen participation are key to lasting development and prosperity.