Dubai, UAE – In a vibrant celebration of the nation’s elders, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai, in partnership with the Community Development Authority, hosted a special event on Wednesday to mark the International Day of Older Persons.
The gathering, held in a joyful and social atmosphere, was designed to honour the contributions of senior citizens and reinforce their sense of belonging within the community, aligning with Dubai’s vision of being a global leader in quality of life.
The event featured a range of engaging activities, including an interactive workshop where seniors showcased their creativity by decorating personal items. Competitions and other social activities were also organised, creating a lively environment that brought smiles to the participants.

Beyond the festivities, the programme included a crucial awareness session focused on community safety. Senior citizens were educated on the risks associated with hiring illegal workers and the proper procedures for reporting violators.
A key highlight of the day was its emphasis on building bridges between generations. The event encouraged the exchange of experiences and knowledge between senior citizens and youth, reflecting the UAE’s wider vision to empower all segments of society and uphold the value of every individual as a cornerstone of national development.

Brigadier Abdul Samad Hussain Al Blooshi, Assistant Director General of the Leadership and Future Sector at GDRFA-Dubai, underscored the importance of the occasion.
“Senior citizens represent a fundamental pillar in building society and a human value cherished by all,” he stated. “Our celebration of their international day reflects Dubai’s commitment to honouring their contributions and highlighting their active role in the development journey.”
He added that the event embodied GDRFA-Dubai’s commitment to the leadership’s vision of placing people at the centre of development, thereby enhancing the nation’s reputation as a “global model in human care and quality of life.”

As the event concluded, participants expressed their appreciation for the initiative, noting that it successfully brought joy to their hearts and provided a valuable space to express their energy and creativity. The day stood as a testament to GDRFA-Dubai’s ongoing mission to build a cohesive society that connects the past with the present while shaping a future rooted in loyalty and mutual respect.