UAE Residents Can Now Nominate Inspiring Individuals For Abu Dhabi Awards

UAE residents can now nominate individuals who have made a positive impact on the community for the 12th edition of the Abu Dhabi Awards, one of the nation's highest civilian honours.

Held under the patronage of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the awards recognise those who have shown exceptional dedication and commitment to serving the country.
Who can be nominated?

Nominations are open to everyone, regardless of age, nationality, or profession. Eligible nominees include:

• Citizens, residents, or even visitors whose good deeds have benefited the UAE

• People whose international contributions reflect positively on the UAE

• Individuals whose voluntary work, advocacy, or public service made a lasting impact

As long as the contribution is meaningful, anyone can nominate, and anyone can be nominated.

How to nominate

Nominations can be submitted online via The process is simple and open year-round.

Once submitted, nominations go through a thorough research and review phase, where a dedicated team evaluates each candidate's impact. Finalists are then reviewed by a judging panel, who makes the final recommendations.

The recipients will be honoured during a special ceremony, where Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed personally awards each honouree the prestigious Abu Dhabi Medal, issued by the Ruler of Abu Dhabi.

Coinciding with the UAE's Year of Community, this year's edition also marks 20 years since the award's inception in 2005. To date, 100 recipients from 18 nationalities have been honoured, including doctors, volunteers, athletes, environmental advocates, educators and more.

“This initiative is about recognising the unsung heroes among us, those who serve quietly but leave a lasting impact,” said Mahra Al Shamsi, a member of the Abu Dhabi Awards Organising Committee.

“One nomination could help spark a legacy of giving that lives on for generations to come.”

To mark this milestone, nine landmarks across Abu Dhabi, including ADGM, Mubadala tower, Al Ain City Municipality, Al Dhafra Region Municipality, Khalifa University, the Capital Gate and W Hotel Abu Dhabi were illuminated in yellow on Tuesday evening as a gesture of gratitude for inspiring individuals who have contributed with selflessness, dedication, and sincerity.

'Goodness in motion'

This year's campaign also introduces a new outreach initiative called“Goodness in Motion,” which will bring the Abu Dhabi Awards directly to the community through visits to malls, schools, and construction sites. The mobile campaign will include interactive activities, giveaways, and awareness sessions aimed at encouraging more people to take action and recognise the quiet changemakers around them.

The Awards Committee will also host workshops and roadshows in collaboration with various institutions across the country to spread the message of appreciation, generosity, and collective responsibility.

“This is not just about the award, it's about the values we want to see more of,” said Mahra Al Shamsi.“Selflessness, kindness, and service to others are what make our community strong.”

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