The Community Development Authority Supports Fishermen Through a Partnership with the Dubai Fishermen Association and Union Coop

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, xx May 2026: Under the supervision of the Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai, the Dubai Fishermen Cooperative Association (DFCA) and Union Coop launched a community initiative aimed at supporting and empowering fishermen in the Emirate of Dubai through the provision of prepaid Union Coop cards, contributing to enhancing their social and economic stability and supporting the sustainability of the fishing profession as an integral part of the UAE’s national and cultural heritage.

The initiative comes as part of the CDA’s commitment to building effective partnerships across various sectors, in support of the objectives of the “Dubai Social Agenda 33,” which aims to enhance quality of life and foster a more cohesive and prosperous society, while supporting vital professional and community groups that form part of Dubai’s cultural and social identity.

The CDA affirmed that this initiative reflects the importance of integration and collaboration between government entities, community institutions, and the private sector in achieving sustainable social development. The CDA also praised the leading community role played by Union Coop through its continuous contributions to supporting social initiatives and programmes, reflecting its strong commitment to social responsibility and supporting deserving groups within the community.

The CDA organised a co-design session aimed at checking on the wellbeing of fishermen and identifying their needs, in a way that enhances the sustainability of support provided to this segment and takes into consideration their social and living requirements.

Shaikha Al Jarman, CEO of the Social Development Sector at the Community Development Authority in Dubai, stated that this initiative reflects the CDA’s commitment to strengthening community integration and building strategic partnerships that contribute to supporting and empowering various segments of society, in line with the objectives of the “Dubai Social Agenda 33,” which aims to build a more connected, stable, and prosperous society.

Al Jarman added: “Supporting fishermen through the provision of shopping cards in collaboration with Union Coop stems from the importance of this profession as an authentic part of the UAE’s national heritage and cultural identity, as well as our commitment to enhancing the social and economic stability of fishermen and their families, contributing to preserving traditional professions and improving quality of life.”

For his part, Mohamed Al Hashemi, CEO of Union Coop, said: “This initiative stems from Union Coop’s steadfast commitment to supporting community and development initiatives that contribute to enhancing quality of life and reinforcing social and economic stability for different community members, particularly fishermen, who represent an integral part of the UAE’s national identity and maritime heritage.”

He added: “At Union Coop, we believe in the importance of collaboration between government entities, community organisations, and the private sector in achieving sustainable development that generates a positive impact on society, in alignment with the objectives of Dubai’s Social Agenda and its ambitious vision of building a more cohesive and prosperous community. We will continue supporting initiatives that promote social responsibility and empower fishermen in ways that support the sustainability of the fishing profession for future generations.”

The CDA reaffirmed its commitment to continuing the development of community initiatives and partnerships that contribute to supporting fishermen and enhancing their professional and social stability, preserving Dubai and the UAE’s maritime heritage and national legacy, while reinforcing the values of solidarity and community cooperation in line with Dubai’s development vision and comprehensive progress.