The first gathering—branded the Community Well-being Edition—brought together psychologists, policy researchers, lifestyle industry leaders and residents to focus on mental health, social cohesion and quality of living. Among the speakers were the executive director of the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research and a clinical psychologist from a local hospital, joined by the head of lifestyle and tourism at a prominent hospitality group. Their discussion unpacked issues from emotional support and access to care, to how lifestyle infrastructure and community-oriented planning can influence well-being.
Officials behind the project underlined that Heart of RAK seeks to do more than document development and investment in the Emirate. It aims to build a sense of belonging and collective identity, offering residents and newcomers alike a resource to navigate life in Ras Al Khaimah. Organisers framed the series as a human-centred complement to economic and infrastructure growth, stressing that growth must go hand in hand with social and emotional sustainability.
The panel format allows the Emirate to present diverse perspectives—including government, health, business and civil society—on what defines a thriving community. As the platform evolves, the next installment, scheduled in February, will examine how neighbourhood design, community networks and urban planning shape livability. This suggests a widening scope beyond individual welfare toward systemic social infrastructure.
The initiative takes place against a backdrop of growing interest in Ras Al Khaimah’s appeal as a place to live, work and visit. The Emirate’s broader strategy emphasises attracting residents and investors by showcasing a balanced lifestyle, blending natural landscapes, emerging real-estate growth and expanding hospitality offerings with community-centred living. The Quality-of-Life Series appears to signal that leaders consider social vitality an essential pillar of that strategy.
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