Page 100 - SLC PR REPORT - MARCH 2025

Guided by core principles, the Framework prioritises the best interests of the child, ensuring their
safety, wellbeing, and development. It reinforces the role of the family as the foundation of child
welfare, recognising its central role in raising and protecting children. The approach promotes joint
responsibility among parents, professionals, and the wider community in ensuring child safety and
wellbeing. It also ensures that government efforts are aligned and integrated, supporting early
intervention and prevention strategies that equip professionals, parents, and communities with the
necessary tools to identify and address risks proactively.

Taking a holistic approach, the Dubai Child Protection Framework considers the needs of children,
adolescents, and youth at every stage of their development. The Framework spans from prenatal
care to young adulthood, up to 21 years of age, ensuring continuous and adequate support from
families while providing access to essential services. It includes prenatal and newborn care,
ensuring access to quality maternal health and early childhood services, followed by support
throughout childhood and schooling years, with a strong focus on healthcare, education, and social
wellbeing. It also enhances protections for adolescents by addressing key areas such as mental
health, education, and career readiness. Additionally, the Framework includes specialised training
programmes to support parents, including parenting guidance and pre-marital counselling,
equipping families with the knowledge and skills needed to foster a nurturing home environment.

The Dubai Child Protection Framework is supported by a series of strategic initiatives, primarily the
Dubai Child Protection Protocol, which establishes a structured system for social case
management. It also includes training programmes to enhance the capabilities of social workers
and professionals involved in child welfare, ensuring they have the necessary skills to effectively
support children and families. In line with Dubai’s digital transformation efforts, the Framework
promotes the automation and digital integration of child protection services, improving
accessibility and efficiency. Legislative reforms are also underway to strengthen governance,
accountability, and compliance with national child welfare standards, ensuring that policies remain
robust and aligned with best practices.

The implementation of the Framework is driven by close collaboration among key government
entities, including the Community Development Authority, Knowledge and Human Development
Authority, Dubai Police, Dubai Public Prosecution, Dubai Courts, Supreme Legislation Committee,
Dubai Health Authority, Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, Erada Center, Dubai
Foundation for Women and Children, General Directorate for Identity and Foreigners Affairs, Digital
Dubai Authority, and Dubai Sports Council. Beyond government agencies, the Framework engages
a broad network of professionals and service providers, including educators, healthcare
professionals, social workers, non-profit organisations, volunteers, and centres supporting children
of determination. This integrated and multidisciplinary approach ensures that child protection
efforts are well-coordinated, raising awareness about legal responsibilities and strengthening
compliance with federal and local laws. It also enhances communication and cooperation between
entities and the community to support efficient, thorough, and timely case management.

A fundamental aspect of the Dubai Child Protection Framework is its focus on building the capacity
of professionals working in child welfare. Through targeted training programmes, the Framework
equips practitioners with the skills and knowledge needed to identify, respond to, and manage child
protection concerns effectively and compassionately. The training initiatives also play a crucial role

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protection#:~:text=By%20launching%20the%20Dubai%20Child,vision%20for%20sustainable%20s
ocial%20development.