Sharjah: Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the Department of Statistics and Community Development has announced the second edition of the Regional Data and Community Development Forum. The event will be hosted at Expo Centre Sharjah from May 20 to 21, 2026, focusing on the theme "Community and Family Cohesion Through Modern Data."
According to Emirates News Agency, the Forum aligns with the Year of Family and aims to gather regional and international stakeholders to explore how data can bolster community strength and support family-centric development. The event will feature policymakers, experts, practitioners, and community voices discussing how data can enhance family-focused strategies amid today's social, economic, and technological shifts.
The Forum will serve as a vital platform for understanding what strengthens family bonds, supports well-being, and enables communities to thrive across generations. It aims to provide insights on how data and evidence can guide decisions that fortify family cohesion and improve quality of life within various communities.
The programme will delve into themes affecting family life, such as financial well-being, labour market changes, youth empowerment, women's economic participation, active ageing, and modern fatherhood. Additional sessions will cover children's digital safety, access to information, and the influence of technology and artificial intelligence on family dynamics. The discussions will move beyond theoretical concepts, focusing on practical insights, lived experiences, and collaborative approaches to bridge policy and practice.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Statistics and Community Development Department, commented on the Forum's announcement. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and collaboration, noting that families are the cornerstone of resilient communities. He highlighted that data's value lies in its ability to connect sectors, people, and perspectives, leading to better decision-making.
The second edition will build on the success of its inaugural event, which attracted over 5,700 participants, featured more than 100 global experts, and offered over 60 talks, panels, and workshops. The Forum continues to play a crucial role in linking data, policy, and community perspectives, encouraging practical steps that convert knowledge into tangible community-serving results.
This year's partners include The Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab Countries of the Gulf, United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, and the International Statistical Institute, reflecting a collective commitment to family-focused, data-informed development, and evidence-based policy.