Diversity and inclusion: How Dubai values safety and tolerance in the community

“There is no future for this region without intellectual restructuring that consolidates the values of tolerance, pluralism, and acceptance of others intellectually, culturally, and in terms of sect and religion.”

The above quote by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, sums up Dubai’s and the UAE’s stance on the values of acceptance and empathy.

Among Dubai’s core values is tolerance, which is a reflection of its multicultural and diverse nature. Tolerance and acceptance have been promoted by the UAE government in the country with significant efforts over the years. As part of the government’s efforts to encourage peaceful coexistence among its citizens and communities, the Ministry of Tolerance was established in 2016.

Here, cultural and religious festivals are celebrated throughout the year by people of all nationalities and backgrounds with equal enthusiasm. Furthermore, Dubai has laws protecting the rights of individuals, including bans on discrimination based on race, gender, and nationality.

The city also has a robust legal system that upholds the rights of all individuals, regardless of their background. Consequently, it has the reputation of being one of the safest cities in the world with one of the lowest crime rates. There is a great deal of emphasis placed on security and safety here by the government. In addition to a highly-trained police force, the city has high-tech security systems that make use of the latest technological innovations, so no stone is left unturned when it comes to the safety of its people.

Talking about the International Day of Tolerance in 2021, Omar Ghobash, Assistant Minister for Culture and Public Diplomacy at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, was quoted as saying, “In the UAE, tolerance is more than just a word; it is a way of life. Characterized by 200 nationalities living together in unison, tolerance transcends borders and enables further openness, inclusiveness, and deeper international partnerships. It is one of the main fundamentals of the country’s direction and a key part of our legacy. The appointment of a Minister of State for Tolerance in 2016 reflects the UAE’s long-standing commitment to enshrining tolerance locally and regionally.”

He further said, “Tolerance is acceptance and appreciation of different faiths and world cultures. Our relationship with all civilizations, cultures, and religions is part of our country’s DNA, and we will continue to welcome the world to diversify our nation while remaining truly inclusive for the benefit of humanity.”

From businesses to multinational corporations, and from citizens to tourists, the emirate is built on diversity, inclusion, tolerance, and safety. These values are reflected in everything that one experiences in Dubai – ranging from the strategies approved by the leadership to the way the city’s economy operates. All of these make Dubai one of the best places on the planet to live, work, and visit.