UAE Launches Ministry of Family to Empower and Support Families
The establishment of the Ministry of Family is a revolutionary move by the UAE to improve social ties. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE’s vice president, prime minister, and ruler of Dubai, announced the new ministry, which is to strengthen families, increase their stability, and advance the country.
Leadership and Purpose
The ministry will be led by Sanaa Suhail, a seasoned professional in family and community development. Suhail is anticipated to lead projects that complement the UAE’s goal because of his years of experience in early childhood development, empowering families, and assisting tenacious individuals.
Sheikh Mohammed emphasized, “The family is the cornerstone of societal development and a guarantee for the future. Its stability is a national priority.”
National Focus Areas
The ministry was established to implement comprehensive strategies, particularly in response to directives from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed. Key focus areas include:
- Enhancing family growth and cohesion.
- Increasing fertility rates within Emirati families.
- Supporting young couples in marriage preparation.
Responsibilities of the Ministry
The Ministry of Family will undertake a range of initiatives to achieve its objectives:
- Family Development: Policies will focus on creating stable and connected families while emphasizing proper child upbringing.
- Fertility Initiatives: Programs to increase fertility rates among Emirati families will be prioritized.
- Marriage Support: Couples will receive guidance and access to marriage support programs, including financial grants.
- Parenting and Work-Life Balance: Initiatives to develop parenting skills and promote balanced family dynamics will be launched.
- Child Protection: Safeguarding children’s rights in all aspects, including education, health, and social well-being, will be a core focus.
- Vulnerable Groups: The ministry will work to empower and integrate at-risk members of society.
- Social Sector Development: Training professionals in the social sector and regulating institutions providing family services will also fall under the ministry’s remit.
Community Empowerment Ministry Redefined
In parallel, the Ministry of Social Development has been renamed the Ministry of Social Empowerment, headed by Shamma Al Mazrouei. This revamped ministry focuses on creating an advanced social empowerment system, ensuring that low-income Emirati families live a dignified life.
Key responsibilities of the renamed ministry include:
- Managing social support systems and disbursing aid.
- Regulating public benefit organizations and overseeing charitable activities.
- Promoting volunteerism across society.
- Supervising the operations of non-Muslim houses of worship.
A Vision for the Future
The UAE’s goal of developing a strong, integrated society is underscored by its commitment to family and community empowerment. With the creation of a renewed emphasis on the Ministry of Family and the Ministry of Community Empowerment, the nation is well positioned to guarantee a successful and sustainable future for its citizens.