Advancing Tolerance through Policy and Practice, UAE as role model

Authors: Aleksandra Brankovic
Conference: 2nd International Dialogue Of Civilization And Tolerance Conference 2025
Keywords: tolerance, inclusive society, policies, government, MOT

Abstract

This paper aims to fill the existing literature by providing insights on how tolerance policies affect UAE citizens and residents in their day-to-day lives and the UAE’s approach to tolerance as the foundation for the country’s multicultural society. UAE, hosts more than 200 nationalities and has developed various policies and programs that support the integration of people from different backgrounds. The main aims include understanding the MOT programs, identifying residents’ perception of tolerance, and identifying how government policies influence social cohesion in a pluralistic society. Both convenience and theoretical sampling approaches were adopted, while data were analyzed using Grounded Theory by gathering data from the MOT and the UAE population. Focused interviews offered a qualitative means of data collection that were analyzed for emerging tolerance patterns. The study’s conclusion shows how the UAE government is in line with promoting tolerance among people in the country. Although there are well-documented advances in addressing diversity issues, the study revealed that there are areas with policy recommendations that could enhance the integration of multicultural citizens. Thus, the UAE case offers a best practice for other countries to follow regarding tolerance promotion. However, constant review and modification of the policy are crucial due to the rising societal demands, particularly in preserving the nation’s unity in diversity. Having in mind the importance of the Tolerance Framework, TES theory should be developed further in order to introduce the connection between theory and practice, to provide a systematic way of developing tolerance, improving people’s quality of life, and building an inclusive society.