International Youth Day is an awareness day designated by the United Nations and is observed on August 12. Marking the day, UAE leaders took to social media to post posted inspiring messages for the youth, expressing trust in them to create a better tomorrow.

“The future is in your hands,” wrote His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

A video was also shared by Government of Dubai Media Office that featured Sheikh Mohammed narrating a poem he wrote for the day for the youth.

Sheikh Mohammed narrated, “They are our country’s tomorrow, her wishes they fulfil. Like you, when I was young, I envisioned a dream. For many days, it visited me and drew further near. Our youths are our champions…our country’s hopes and dreams fulfilled.”

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, also took to Twitter to wish the youth of the nation. He wrote, “It is today’s youth that will shape our world tomorrow. On International Youth Day, let us celebrate their potential, empower them to succeed, and trust them to create a brighter future for all.”

The UAE believes in the youth of the country and has also launched several schemes and benefits for them. One of the highlights has been the appointment of the youngest ministers in the world, Shamma bint Suhail bin Faris Al Mazrui who became the Minister of State for Youth Affairs at the age of 22 in 2016 - holds the post currently.

The UAE has launched several initiatives to help its youth take on additional responsibilities and fulfil their aspirations like the Emirates Youth Opportunities, Federal Youth Authority, Interactive Youth Lab, Emirati Youth Board Membership, Youth Councils, Youth Circles and Youth Hubs.