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4/24/25, 11:29 AM Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi unveils key services under ‘Barakatna’ Initiative – UAE Business and Travel …
The launch aligns with the objectives of the “Year of Community,” emphasising holistic support for families. It
also reflects the leadership’s vision of placing senior citizens at the heart of society, in recognition of their
lifelong contributions to nation-building, and reaffirms Abu Dhabi’s commitment to a compassionate and
inclusive social development model.

“Barakatna” is one of the strategic initiatives led by the Department of Community Development, developed in
close coordination with key government partners in the Emirate. It is grounded in the Department’s proactive
approach to identifying societal needs and challenges through studies, surveys, and other social monitoring tools.
The Family Development Foundation is responsible for overseeing the implementation of services, in
collaboration with a network of entities that includes the Department of Government Enablement, the
Department of Municipalities and Transport, Abu Dhabi Housing Authority, Abu Dhabi Real Estate Center, and
PureHealth.

Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development, stated that the
“Barakatna” initiative reflects the deep-rooted values of Emirati society and embodies the leadership’s
commitment to the wellbeing of senior citizens within a strong, supportive family and community environment.

“We designed this initiative following an in-depth review of the challenges facing caregivers, with the goal of
easing their daily burdens and empowering them to carry out their noble responsibilities toward their parents. It
is about helping them strike a healthy balance between work and family life. Family caregiving is not just a duty
—it is a living expression of loyalty and a foundation for a cohesive, resilient society.”

The initiative offers six integrated services. Among them is to Obtain Temporary Alternative Care for Senior
Citizens, implemented by the Family Development Foundation. This service allows primary caregivers to
request temporary care for elderly parents who are unable to care for themselves and require ongoing assistance.
Care is provided for up to 8 hours per day, once per week, for a total of 48 days per year, enabling caregivers to
attend to personal responsibilities, spend time with their families, and ease the demands of daily life.

Mariam Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Director General of the Family Development Foundation, emphasised that the
Foundation operates under the guidance of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the “Mother of the Nation,”
Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union (GWU), President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and
Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF). She noted that the
Foundation is committed to providing a comprehensive psychosocial support system for senior citizens,
enhancing their abilities, and ensuring their full integration into society.

“The ‘Barakatna’ initiative contributes to improving the quality of life for caregivers by offering practical,
tailored solutions that reflect their day-to-day reality,” she said. “By supervising the implementation of these
services, the Foundation seeks to strengthen family cohesion and promote a culture of shared responsibility—
advancing Abu Dhabi’s broader goals for a more inclusive, compassionate, and sustainable society.”

The Government Empowerment Authority is offering to Obtain Approval for Flexible Working Systems for
Caregivers of their Parents, which allows caregivers to obtain a formal certificate granting them access to
flexible work policies within government entities. This enables them to balance their professional and caregiving
responsibilities more effectively.

Ahmad Tamim Hisham Al Kuttab, Chairman of the Government Empowerment Authority – Abu Dhabi, stated:

“This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to senior citizens and to supporting caregivers in the
workplace. Through our partnership with the Department of Community Development, we aim to establish
flexible, forward-thinking policies that enhance social cohesion and empower employees to care for their parents
through proactive services.”
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