Fujairah joins UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities

Fujairah’s Global Network standing

Fujairah now joins 72 cities from 46 countries recognized for promoting the right to education for people of all ages. The GNLC, launched in 2013, now includes 425 cities from 91 countries, collectively supporting lifelong learning for nearly 500 million citizens.

UAE leadership highlights educational commitment

Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Culture, stated that Fujairah’s inclusion reflects the UAE’s commitment to advancing education, culture, and human development, fostering a sustainable knowledge-based economy, and empowering communities through innovation and sustainability.

Ministry of Culture supports GNLC membership

The Ministry of Culture, through the National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, supported Fujairah’s GNLC candidacy, aligning with UNESCO priorities and reinforcing the UAE’s role in global learning and cultural exchange.

Benefits of Fujairah’s participation

Fujairah’s participation will enhance international cooperation, facilitate the exchange of best practices, and strengthen the UAE’s leadership in cultural dialogue and knowledge-driven development.

Strategic educational efforts in Fujairah

Mohammed Al Dhanhani, Director of the Fujairah Emiri Court, emphasized Fujairah’s efforts in expanding educational infrastructure, enhancing digital literacy, and creating community learning hubs. Guided by His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, these initiatives support UAE Vision 2031 and the National Strategy for Education 2030.

UNESCO statement on new learning cities

UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education Stefania Giannini highlighted that the 72 new Learning Cities redefine education by making every space—from libraries to homes—an opportunity for learning and innovation, empowering people of all ages.

Fujairah Learning City Project: Vision and goals

Fujairah's Learning City Project envisions lifelong learning as central to sustainable development:

Medium-term goals (3-5 years): Strengthen educational infrastructure, promote digital skills, foster community-based learning, enhance local artistic talent, and develop a localized Learning City Strategy.

Long-term goals (5-10 years): Establish Fujairah as a regional leader in lifelong learning, achieve educational equity, develop a skilled workforce, expand international collaborations, and implement impact measurement systems.

Key educational and cultural initiatives

Majlis Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi: A platform for dialogue on culture, innovation, and community priorities, fostering civic engagement and intercultural learning.

Young Techpreneurs Initiative: Launched in 2025 for children aged 7-15, teaching programming, AI, and cybersecurity in collaboration with Hamdan bin Mohammed Smart University.

Fujairah Children’s Book Fair: Launched in 2024, promoting literacy, creativity, and inclusive education through workshops, storytelling, and author partnerships.

Sustainability and health programmes

Fujairah advances sustainability and well-being through initiatives such as the Wadi Wurayah Protected Area Education Programme and the Together We Move campaign, offering fitness classes and wellness workshops.

Equity and inclusion efforts

Programs promote intercultural dialogue, vocational training for individuals with disabilities, and support for low-income families, migrant workers, seniors, and rural residents through community centers and digital platforms.

Linking education with employment

Fujairah’s Chamber of Commerce runs a Business Incubation Programme, the Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi Leadership Programme develops public-sector skills, and school entrepreneurial clubs align technical education with local labor market needs.

Promoting gender equality in lifelong learning

Initiatives by the Fujairah Businesswomen Council and the Fujairah Research Center ensure equal access to educational and professional development opportunities for both women and men.