Dubai Unveils Sweeping Initiative to Support Families
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In a significant move to bolster family well-being, Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, wife of the Ruler of Dubai, has launched the Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum Family program. This comprehensive initiative aims to strengthen families in Dubai, providing crucial support for their growth and stability.
The program reflects Sheikha Hind’s commitment to empowering Emirati families and upholding conventional values. It addresses key areas impacting family life, including financial stability, work-life balance, and social support.
Sheikha Hind emphasized the program’s alignment wiht the vision of his Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, stating, “We believe that the family is the solid foundation for building a better future, and we seek to fulfill the aspirations of every Emirati family in Dubai, ensure the sustainability of their happiness and stability, and enhance their role in preparing generations capable of contributing to a brighter future.”
A Multifaceted approach to Family Well-being
The Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum Family Programme offers a wide range of benefits. These include financial assistance for weddings and housing, increased work flexibility for parents, and educational and social support resources. The program’s scope is designed to address the diverse needs of modern families.
The initiative is closely tied to Dubai’s Social Agenda 33, which aims to create the happiest and most cohesive families in the region. A key goal is to double the number of Emirati families in Dubai by 2033.
Key Program Benefits
- Work Flexibility: Government employees will receive 10 days of paid marriage leave, and mothers will have access to “telework” Fridays for a year after maternity leave.
- Housing Assistance: Beneficiaries of the “Dubai Weddings” program may see their monthly housing loan deductions reduced to a minimum of 3,333 dirhams (approximately $907 USD), provided their monthly income doesn’t exceed 30,000 dirhams (approximately $8,180 USD).
- Wedding Support: The “Dubai Weddings” program,launched in January 2024,covers the costs of wedding celebrations and provides free use of wedding halls and community centers. It also includes financial support for newlyweds.
The Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum Family Programme represents a significant investment in the future of Emirati families. Its comprehensive approach to family support offers a model that other nations might consider adopting to strengthen their own communities.
Dubai Unveils Sweeping Support for Emirati Newlyweds
Dubai has launched a comprehensive initiative designed to support Emirati couples embarking on married life. The ”Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum Family Program” offers a wide range of benefits, addressing key areas such as housing, financial planning, and marital well-being. The program builds upon the success of the “Dubai Weddings” initiative, which saw a significant increase in citizen marriages in 2024.
Housing and Financial Security: cornerstones of the Program
A key component of the program is housing assistance, provided in collaboration with the Mohammed bin Rashid Housing establishment. Eligible couples receive priority access to ready-made housing, particularly those applying for loans. This significant support aims to alleviate a major financial burden for newlyweds.
Beyond housing, the program emphasizes financial literacy. A specialized financial education program teaches couples sound financial planning and budgeting techniques. The goal is to equip them with the skills to manage their finances effectively and build long-term financial stability. “The program aims to enable those about to get married to make sound financial planning and manage financial resources effectively, to ensure their financial stability in the long term,” explains a program spokesperson. This initiative mirrors similar programs in the U.S. focused on improving financial literacy among young adults.
Marital Guidance and Enrichment
Recognizing the importance of a strong marital foundation, the program includes the “Start It Right” marital rights awareness program.This initiative provides couples with essential skills for building a triumphant and fulfilling relationship. The program covers communication, conflict resolution, and other crucial aspects of marital harmony. To date, 1,013 couples have benefited from this program, with an additional 208 receiving financial support.
Further enhancing the program’s scope is a “How to build your own house?” program, offered in partnership with the New Economy Academy. This practical training equips couples with the knowledge and skills to manage the construction of their homes efficiently and cost-effectively.
Eligibility and Registration
The “Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum Family Program” is available to Emirati couples where the wife is a citizen of the UAE.Couples can register through the “Emarati” platform, the “Dubai Now” app, or by visiting the Community Development Authority website. Alternatively, they can contact the authority directly at 8002121. The program’s benefits are available to new beneficiaries starting April 1, 2025, with housing applications accepted within one year of registering for “Dubai Weddings.”
Future phases of the program will expand to include additional benefits in education, healthcare, and other social services, solidifying Dubai’s commitment to supporting its citizens.
Dubai’s New Family Program: A Conversation with Dr. Aisha Al Ansari
Dubai has recently unveiled a multifaceted program aimed at bolstering Emirati families. Joining us to discuss the Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum Family Program is Dr. Aisha Al Ansari, a leading sociologist specializing in family dynamics and social policy in the UAE.
world-Today-News Senior Editor: Welcome, dr. Al Ansari.
This thorough program seems to address crucial aspects of family life in Dubai. Could you give our readers an overview of its goals?
Dr. Al Ansari: Thank you for having me.This program is truly groundbreaking. its primary goal is to strengthen the foundation of Emirati families by providing tangible support across several key areas.We see a focus on financial stability, enhancing work-life balance for parents, and fostering strong marital relationships.
World-Today-News Senior Editor: One of the program highlights is its innovative approach to work versatility for parents. Can you elaborate on those initiatives?
Dr. Al Ansari: Absolutely. Recognizing the challenges of balancing work and family, the program offers goverment employees 10 days of paid marriage leave, allowing newlyweds to adjust to their new chapter. moreover, mothers will have the option of “telework” Fridays for a year after maternity leave, facilitating a smoother transition back to work while still being present for their newborns.
World-Today-News Senior Editor: Housing costs can be a critically important burden for young families. How does the program address this challenge?
Dr. Al Ansari: The program offers significant assistance in this area. Beneficiaries of the “Dubai Weddings” program, which launched earlier in the year, can see their monthly housing loan deductions reduced to a minimum of 3,333 dirhams, as long as their monthly income doesn’t exceed 30,000 dirhams. This targeted support helps alleviate the financial strain associated with homeownership.
World-Today-News Senior Editor: What other benefits does the Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum Family Program offer to newlyweds?
Dr. Al Ansari: This program goes beyond the practical aspects of housing and work. Recognizing the importance of financial literacy for young couples, it includes a specialized financial education program, equipping them with the skills to manage their finances effectively and build long-term stability. The program also offers marital guidance and enrichment initiatives like the “Start It Right” program, providing couples with essential tools for building strong and fulfilling relationships.
World-Today-News Senior Editor: Empowering Emirati families appears to be at the heart of this initiative.
Dr. Al ansari: you are absolutely right. This program is a testament to Dubai’s commitment to creating a supportive and thriving environment for emirati families. By equipping couples with the tools and resources thay need, from financial security to relationship guidance, the program aims to foster strong family units that will contribute to a brighter future for Dubai.
World-Today-News Senior Editor:
Dr. Al Ansari, thank you for shedding light on this significant program.
Dr.Al Ansari: It’s my pleasure. This initiative deserves recognition and, hopefully, will inspire similar efforts in other regions.
