Arab Youth Center announces names of 100 young men and women from 75 countries for the 'Global Youth Water Ambassadors Program'
The Arab Youth Center announced the names of 100 young men and women representing 75 countries across six regions worldwide, who will join the “Global Youth Water Ambassadors Program,” qualifying them to participate in the 2026 United Nations Water Conference and contribute their insights and recommendations to its discussions. The United Arab Emirates will host the conference in partnership with the Republic of Senegal in Abu Dhabi from December 8 to 10 next year.
The ambassadors were selected from more than 2,000 applicants and possess expertise spanning scientific research, public policy, engineering, entrepreneurship, and community work. They will undergo a preparatory program in October and November that combines foundational training with specialized study on the conference’s six interactive dialogues.
The announcement was made during a virtual press conference and a welcome meeting with the ambassadors, which opened with remarks by Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Nabhani, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Deputy Chairman of the Arab Youth Center, and Abdullah Al Alawi, Assistant Undersecretary for Energy and Sustainability Affairs at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Fatima Al-Hilali, Executive Director of the Arab Youth Center, outlined the selection stages and details of the ambassadors’ preparatory program. The meeting also featured interventions from representatives of supporting entities and two of the selected ambassadors.
The Center launched the program during the United Nations High-Level Political Forum in New York in July 2026, in strategic partnership with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and with support from the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation.
Opportunities for Youth
In his speech at the press conference, Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Nabhani said: “The Global Youth Water Ambassadors will participate in the 2026 United Nations Water Conference with their knowledge and expertise, after undergoing a high-quality preparation process that equips them to convey the realities of their communities, present insights based on their experiences and needs, and contribute practical proposals that policymakers can benefit from. Their participation is particularly significant in amplifying the voices of youth from diverse communities in global water discussions and engaging them in seeking solutions to one of the most pressing challenges affecting the future of coming generations. The program also embodies the UAE’s commitment to empowering youth and enhancing their presence in international work by providing them with the knowledge and tools needed to contribute effectively to global dialogues and participate in developing solutions and directions that shape the future of their communities.”
Abdullah Al Alawi stated: “Through this program, the UAE is launching a platform that enables young leaders to actively participate in global water diplomacy, contribute to the work of the 2026 United Nations Water Conference, and continue this role afterward. Youth voices have long been marginalized in discussions, merely listening to speeches and taking notes. But this must change. We want you to express your opinions, ask difficult questions, propose new ideas, and participate in decision-making.”
Geographic Diversity
The ambassadors hail from six regions around the world, including Africa, Arab countries, Asia, and the Pacific. Their specializations range from water sciences, environmental law, engineering, and water governance to practical experience in public institutions, international organizations, and community programs. The group also includes founders of projects and initiatives specialized in the water sector.
After reviewing eligibility criteria and completing applications, those that passed the initial stage underwent an extensive and detailed review process supervised by an independent selection committee comprising 20 representatives from 12 leading partner organizations in the water and youth sectors. This multi-stage process was designed to ensure that all qualified applications were evaluated fairly, transparently, and impartially, drawing on diverse expertise from specialized institutions and organizations.
