Page 54 - FDF PR REPORT - APRIL 2025 (ENGLISH)

This focus on senior citizens stems from the deeply rooted humanitarian and cultural values of
Emirati society. According to the World Happiness Report 2024, senior citizens are the happiest
demographic in the UAE.
Since the UAE's establishment in 1971, the well-being and role of senior citizens in public life have
steadily grown, highlighting the UAE's humanitarian, cultural, and civilisational values under
continuous leadership support.

The UAE government adopted Federal Law No. 9 of 2019 concerning the Rights of Senior Citizens,
defining senior citizens as any UAE national aged 60 and above. The law guarantees fundamental
rights and freedoms, access to information and services, and psychological, social, and health
stability.

It ensures their right to independence and privacy (including decisions about property and
residence), protection from abuse and neglect, accessible environments, housing, education,
work, social services via dedicated centres and mobile units, and comprehensive healthcare,
among other benefits.
The UAE also launched the National Policy for Senior Emiratis, adopting the term "Senior Citizens"
instead of "Elderly" to acknowledge their experience and contributions.

It includes seven main components: healthcare, community involvement and active life, effective
civic participation, infrastructure and transportation, financial stability, safety and security, and
quality of future life.
Senior citizens in the UAE benefit from comprehensive healthcare. The Ministry of Health and
Prevention has launched numerous initiatives to support their healthcare needs, including
establishing a database to monitor their life expectancy and expanding healthcare programmes.

The Emirates Health Services Corporation provides mobile clinics offering treatment and
consultations.
Senior citizens receive priority service and transaction processing in official entities. They benefit
from dedicated parking and accessible public transportation, with ongoing additions of preferential
services by relevant authorities.

The Ministry of Community Development will implement measures to enhance services, focusing
on electronic services, comprehensive healthcare, community participation, and data updates. A
dedicated senior citizens' helpline will be launched for remote data updates.

https://www.gdnonline.com/Details/1351304/UAE-prioritises-comprehensive-care-for-senior-
citizens-with-new-Barakatna-initiative