Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Representative of the Ruler of Abu Dhabi in the Al Dhafra Region, received a delegation from the social sector of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi at Al Nakheel Palace, headed by His Excellency Shams Ali Al Dhaheri, Chairman of the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi.
During the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan was briefed on the latest developments in the social sector ecosystem in the Al Dhafra Region, and on the programmes and initiatives being implemented by the department in cooperation with its partners. These target support for family stability, the development of care and social support services, the empowerment of people of determination, the enhancement of services for senior citizens, and the promotion of community participation, making services more closely aligned with the needs of the region's residents.
Sheikh Hamdan affirmed that caring for people and providing the elements of a dignified life is the core of development work in the United Arab Emirates, and a continuation of the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may his soul rest in peace, and a translation of the vision of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan — may God protect him — in entrenching quality of life, strengthening family stability, and building a cohesive society that contributes to the journey of comprehensive and sustainable development.
He stressed the importance of integrated efforts among the relevant authorities, and of working according to a unified vision that places people at the forefront of priorities, ensuring that services reach citizens with a tangible impact on their lives, supporting the journey of comprehensive development in the Al Dhafra Region, and cementing a social model built on dignity, stability, and quality of life.
The meeting reviewed the latest developments of the 'Madeem' initiative and programmes supporting the stability of Emirati families. Since its launch, the 'Numuw' programme has contributed to a 22% increase in marriage contracts through a package of initiatives that includes an easy marriage loan, rental assistance for newlyweds, an extension of housing loan repayment periods, and support for extending maternity leave.
The 'Madeem' initiative has contributed to a 41% reduction in wedding costs for newlyweds and has raised awareness among young people preparing for marriage about the importance of building a stable family.
Sheikh Hamdan was also briefed on the social support system dedicated to low-income residents in the Al Dhafra Region, which includes employment, rehabilitation, and financial awareness programmes, enhancing the economic and social empowerment of beneficiary families and supporting their stability, quality of life, and individual independence.
The presentation covered the efforts of the Family Care Authority in providing specialised and integrated services in the region, including awareness workshops, counselling sessions, integration and empowerment programmes, and care for minors, alongside community awareness programmes that contribute to the prevention of social challenges and respond to the needs of various segments of society.
The meeting also touched on the 'Nabdh' community centres initiative, which provides diverse facilities, programmes, and activities to promote community cohesion. Sheikh Hamdan was briefed on the experience of the 'Nabdh Al Falah' community centre and its results in broadening community participation and strengthening the sense of belonging.
His Excellency Shams Ali Al Dhaheri, Chairman of the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi, said: "The efforts made in the Al Dhafra Region embody the department's commitment to developing an integrated social ecosystem based on Abu Dhabi's vision of building a cohesive society in which individuals enjoy a high quality of life.
"Working in cooperation with our partners, we are enhancing the impact of social programmes and initiatives in the region through services that are closer to the community's needs and more capable of supporting family stability and empowering various segments of society, in line with the aspirations of the wise leadership and advancing sustainable social development."