Dubai's Innovative Summer Program: Empowering Youth Through Education and Safety Initiatives

Transforming Summer into a Learning Opportunity

Dubai has undertaken a remarkable initiative to redefine summer vacations for its youth. Instead of viewing this break as a gap in their education, the city has harnessed this time to cultivate positive values, promote safety awareness, and instill discipline through structured programs spearheaded by the Dubai Police's International Hemaya Center.

A Commitment to Youth Development

In 2026, the summer program marked a significant milestone by graduating 1,402 students from 31 nationalities. Since its inception in 2018, the center has achieved a total of 10,792 graduates, showcasing a rich tapestry of 175 nationalities involved in this program. This endeavor forms part of Dubai's broader vision to create a safe and resilient society by investing in our youth through preventive education, skill acquisition, and community partnerships.

General of Police Abdulla Khalifa Al Marri emphasized the importance of this initiative, which reflects Dubai's commitment to societal protection by equipping the youth with the necessary knowledge, values, and skills required to become responsible community members. With the support of the Emirate's leaders, the Dubai Police continues to advance sustainable initiatives that raise public awareness, strengthen national values, and encourage young individuals to use their summer breaks productively while preparing them for future challenges.

A Wider Impact Over Nine Years

The impact of the International Hemaya Center extends far beyond the summer program itself. From 2018 to 2026, they have engaged with a staggering 905,976 students, 629,396 parents, and 8,650 teachers across 271 public and private schools. Their digital awareness efforts have also reached more than 102.16 million people. Throughout these years, the center has conducted 1,981 awareness conferences, organized 788 student activities, held 103 awareness exhibitions, hosted 76 interactive competitions, and coordinated 135 awareness campaigns, educational visits, and training programs.

The preventive approach adopted by the center has yielded tangible results. Surveys conducted among parents revealed a dramatic 96.9% improvement in student behavior, and the satisfaction rate for summer program participants hit an impressive 95.3%.

Immersive Learning Experience

The Immersive learning opportunity spans 29 days and includes 174 hours of training that combines military and sports training. Students engage in modules that cover first aid, road safety, and security in schools, alongside leadership activities, educational workshops, and field visits. This multifaceted approach enables students to acquire practical skills that foster self-confidence, a sense of responsibility, and community engagement.

Collaborative Efforts Ensure Success

The success of this program hinges on a broad network of strategic partnerships among various UAE organizations, including the Ministry of Education, the Dubai Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), the Academic Accreditation and Development Institute (IACAD), the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, Erada Center, Al Ameen Service, and other police departments across Dubai.

Through these collaborations, the summer program not only enhances educational outcomes but also molds responsible citizens who are prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow. As Dubai continues to invest in its youth, it sets a powerful example of how summer can be a season of learning, growth, and preparedness.