UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has directed the establishment of the Community-Managed Virtual Authority, an initiative inspired by the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed. Announced at the conclusion of the Year of Community 2025, the authority aims to enhance the role of skilled individuals in shaping the nation’s future. The model adopts a non-traditional approach to governance, placing community participation at its core. For the first time, members of the UAE community will assume full responsibility for managing a public authority, with a Director General and team periodically appointed to lead for fixed terms. The objective is to develop practical initiatives that provide lasting benefits to society.
Empowering People Through Participatory Governance
The authority is designed to serve as a global reference for participatory governance, aligned with the UAE Centennial 2071 vision. It focuses on human development, innovation, and community engagement, creating an environment in which individuals can realise their potential and contribute meaningfully to national priorities. Leadership appointments are based on competence, expertise, and the ability to achieve the authority’s objectives. By rotating the Director General and team members, the model ensures a continual flow of ideas and knowledge exchange, while attracting diverse groups of Emiratis, including professionals, academics, entrepreneurs, youth, and retirees with specialised experience.
Mandate and Continuity in a Rotating Model
The Community-Managed Virtual Authority will design and implement initiatives, programmes, and solutions that respond directly to community needs and aspirations. Continuity is maintained through structured frameworks, approved reference models, phased action plans, and mechanisms for knowledge transfer between rotating teams. By combining administrative flexibility with community empowerment, the initiative introduces a first-of-its-kind governance model. It strengthens participatory governance, invests in human capital, and reinforces the UAE’s role as a global laboratory for government innovation, fostering meaningful partnerships between the state and its people.
