UAE Launches Ministry of Family to Strengthen Social Cohesion

The UAE has announced a government reshuffle under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, introducing the Ministry of Family to strengthen social cohesion and elevate family welfare. Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum revealed the reshuffle on Sunday, emphasizing family as a cornerstone of national progress.

Her Excellency Sana bint Mohammad Suhail, a distinguished leader in early childhood development and family welfare, was appointed as the Minister of Family. She brings decades of experience, including roles such as Director General of the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority and Undersecretary at the Ministry of Community Development.

Mission of the Ministry of Family

The new ministry will focus on:

• Family cohesion and support: Developing policies and initiatives to strengthen family bonds and promote positive values.

• Marriage and child welfare: Offering programs to prepare and support couples, enhance work-life balance, and protect against family violence.

• Boosting fertility rates: Proposing strategies to increase fertility rates among Emirati families while reducing risks of family breakdown.

• Empowering vulnerable groups: Designing initiatives for senior citizens, people of determination, and victims of abuse.

• Early childhood development: Implementing programs to support children’s social, psychological, and educational growth.

Additionally, the ministry will manage family care programs for children in need of alternative families and oversee the social care sector by licensing institutions and training professionals.

Elevation of the Ministry of Community Empowerment

The reshuffle also upgraded the Ministry of Community Development to the Ministry of Community Empowerment, led by Her Excellency Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrui. The new ministry will pioneer community empowerment models, focusing on:

•  Integrated social support systems: Providing tailored pathways for low-income families to achieve financial independence.

•  Third-sector regulation: Licensing and overseeing non-profit organizations and fostering volunteering initiatives.

•  Economic and social integration: Empowering individuals through skill development, training, and employment opportunities aligned with their readiness.

Strategic Vision for Community Development

The government has introduced a unified vision linking family empowerment, education, and human development under the Education, Human Development, and Community Development Council. This initiative ensures a comprehensive approach to nurturing individuals from birth through their contributions to society.

Sheikh Mohammed stated:
"Families form the solid nucleus of our society, and their strength ensures the cohesion of our communities. Through shared responsibility, we aim to lay the foundation for family stability and drive remarkable progress in the social sector."

Transition and Future Plans

Current programs from the Ministry of Community Development will remain in place during a transitional phase. Both new ministries will gradually assume their full responsibilities in the coming year, ensuring beneficiaries are informed of updates through official channels.

This historic reshuffle underscores the UAE's commitment to fostering family stability, community empowerment, and social progress.

For any enquiries or information, contact ask@tlr.ae or call us on +971 52 644 3004. Follow The Law Reporters on WhatsApp Channels