Page 121 - FDF PR REPORT - DECEMBER 2024 (ENGLISH)

Long-term vision

The Emirates is prioritising social welfare policies as it seeks to meet the needs of a growing population and adapt to
a gradual transition towards an older demographic.

The government set out a road map to enhancing the lives of senior citizens in 2018.

The National Policy for Senior Emiratis was approved by the UAE Cabinet with the aim of ensuring elderly Emiratis
remain active members of society and have access to essential services.

The policy was built upon seven main components: health care, community involvement and active life, effective civic
participation, infrastructure and transportation, financial stability, safety and security and quality of life.

Initiatives included medical training for caregivers and forming provide basic health insurance plans for senior citizens
across the country are part of the components dubbed the “healthcare hub”.

Last week, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, announced the establishment of a
Ministry of Family, with Sana Suhail confirmed as the first Minister of Family.

In November, the UAE announced a Dh500 million community initiative focused on the well-being of senior citizens,
women and children through community councils that provide comprehensive social services across the UAE.

Key support is also offered to older members of society through the various housing aid packages delivered each
year.

Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, in November approved the third housing benefit package
of the year, valued at more than Dh7.72 billion, to 5,374 Emiratis.

The package includes housing loans totalling more than Dh3.569 billion, helping 2,373 citizens. It also includes
residential land and housing grants worth Dh3.67 billion, benefiting 2,540 citizens, Abu Dhabi Media Office reported.

Additionally, senior citizens, retirees with low incomes and the families of deceased citizens have been exempted from
housing loan payments amounting to more than Dh486 million. This exemption has benefited 461 citizens.

https://www.msn.com/en-ae/news/national/sheikha-fatima-outlines-uaes-commitment-to-
supporting-senior-citizens-and-families/ar-AA1vTwjR?ocid=BingNewsSerp