Dubai Culture Launches ‘Close to You’ Initiative to Empower People of Determination

The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has unveiled its new initiative, ‘Close to You’, aimed at empowering People of Determination within the organization. The initiative focuses on boosting employee satisfaction, encouraging professional and personal development, and enhancing participation in Dubai’s vibrant cultural landscape.

This move reaffirms Dubai Culture’s commitment to social responsibility and aligns with the broader ‘My Community... A City for Everyone’ initiative by the Dubai Government, which envisions Dubai as a fully inclusive and accessible city for People of Determination.

As part of the initiative’s launch, the Authority hosted the first annual meeting of its People of Determination Council at Al Safa Art & Design Library. The gathering brought together department heads, employees of determination, and their families to foster dialogue, exchange ideas, and explore innovative approaches to inclusivity. The session emphasized the importance of practical solutions to expand accessibility and highlighted the need for a workplace environment that meets the diverse needs of all employees.

In a notable achievement, Dubai Culture has also been awarded ten Autism-Friendly Certifications (AFC) by the Dubai Autism Center. The certifications recognize the Authority’s dedication to inclusive practices across staff training, facility design, and customized services—ensuring that People of Determination experience a supportive and accessible environment.

This initiative marks a significant step in Dubai Culture’s efforts to create an equitable and diverse workplace, while reinforcing its role as a cultural leader committed to inclusion across all levels of society.