Nominations open for the 7th season of Abu Dhabi Awards

Upon the directives of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, who is keen to preserve the legacy of our nation's late father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Government of Abu Dhabi first launched the Abu Dhabi Awards in 2005 to celebrate compassionate individuals who have selflessly volunteered their time to build and support the community of Abu Dhabi.

Under the patronage of His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the Abu Dhabi Awards is designed to recognise everyday heroes in the community.

Record numbers are expected when nominations open for the Abu Dhabi Awards from April 21 until May 31.

A spokesperson from Abu Dhabi Awards Organizing Committee said: “Since 2005, there have been 56 Abu Dhabi Awards recipients, each of whom truly reflect the spirit of generosity of this Emirate. As the seventh campaign begins, the nominations will again reveal more deserving people who have selflessly contributed to our community.”

Anyone who has made a positive impact on the Emirate of Abu Dhabi can be considered for an award – they simply have to be nominated.

This year, the public is being urged to nominate more than one person in the community - people who are really making a difference.

It can be anyone who has done or is doing good deeds for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi – from those working in health and education to charity organisers, sport coaches or simply individuals who are an inspiration to others.

Nominations open on April 21 and run to May 31 with all the latest information at www.abudhabiawards.ae, where people can also submit a nomination online.

They can also visit the Abu Dhabi Awards stands in shopping malls across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Western Region or look out for one of the 90 nomination drop-boxes across the emirate or post a completed nomination form to PO Box 44442, Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Once nominations close, the Abu Dhabi Awards Committee, comprising of leading Abu Dhabi dignitaries, government officials and industry directors, looks at every single entry and, produces a shortlist of the most outstanding candidates. The Committee then further examines each of these nominations, while creating a detailed study on the work and contribution of each of the individuals. Finally, the recipients are decided.

Since being launched in 2005, there have been 56 Abu Dhabi Award recipients. Previous recipients made outstanding contributions in areas such as environmental conservation, caring for the sick and elderly, promoting arts and culture, supporting charitable causes and philanthropy.

This year’s media partner is Abu Dhabi Media where Shamma Al-Khazraji, Executive Director of Marketing Communications said: “The Abu Dhabi Awards play an important role in recognizing excellence within our society. As a media company that is committed to supporting our local community, Abu Dhabi Media is proud to be on board as the official media partner of the Abu Dhabi Awards for 2013. We look forward to seeing the inspiring individuals recognized in this year’s awards.”

Ahmed Al Hashemi, Senior Vice President of Marketing Communication from Etisalat said: “UAE is a melting pot of talent from across the world. There are many who have strived for the development of the Emirate. These individuals have been able to achieve success due to the support and vision of our leaders.

“Etisalat is proud to be associated with such a prestigious award and is looking forward to help drive nominations during the six week campaign. We are confident that this honour will recognise the achievements and bring these well-deserved individuals into the spotlight of local and global audiences.”

Maitha Al Habsi, manager of the Takatof volunteer social program, said: “We are very happy that our volunteers are involved in Abu Dhabi Awards again this year.

“Our participation helps build on the experiences and achievements that Takatof volunteers have from working on Abu Dhabi Awards in previous years.

“We have thoroughly prepared for this year’s Abu Dhabi Awards and will be helping in the whole process - especially in the nomination period from April 21st to May 31st. Our volunteers are ready, willing and able for Abu Dhabi Awards 2013.”

For further information about the Abu Dhabi Awards, including details on how to nominate and a list of past recipients, please visit www.abudhabiawards.ae.