Page 46 - FDF PR REPORT - APRIL 2025 (ENGLISH)

4/24/25, 11:29 AM Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi unveils key services under “Barakatna” initiative
The launch aligns with the objectives of the “Year of Community,” emphasizing 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.

His Excellency 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.

Her Excellency Mariam Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Director General of the Family Development
Foundation, emphasized that the Foundation operates under the guidance of Her Highness Sheikha
Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family
Development Foundation, and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood –

“Mother of the Nation.” 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

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