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6/9/25, 11:07 AM New initiative to provide social services to UAE’s senior citizens
It also offers integrated social services to enhance their quality of life, empower them to access
services through technology, and build the knowledge and skills of their families and caregivers.
Ali Salem Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Family Development Foundation
(FDF), praised the unwavering support of Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation,
for recognising senior citizens as a vital pillar of society.
Al Kaabi noted that Sheikha Fatima is committed to empowering them to continue contributing
in an environment that upholds their dignity and meets their evolving needs.
Al Kaabi added that the Barakat Al Dar Club in Al Shiwayb serves as a pioneering model of
sustainable community care, offering comprehensive programmes and services that meet the
diverse needs of senior citizens across health, cultural, and recreational domains. This initiative
reflects the foundation's commitment to the vision of the UAE's wise leadership, which
emphasises social cohesion and intergenerational solidarity, ensuring continued contributions
and valuing the accumulated expertise of senior citizens.
Al Kaabi emphasised that the foundation remains dedicated to launching innovative
programmes for senior citizens based on international best practices in integrated care.
Al Kaabi commended the interactive activities and awareness programmes that reflect the
needs and aspirations of this demographic, enabling them to maintain a meaningful role in
society through strategic partnerships that ensure the delivery of inclusive, sustainable services.
These efforts aim to enhance seniors' independence and elevate their overall quality of life.
Mariam Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Director General of the Family Development Foundation, said,
"The inauguration of the Barakat Al Dar Social Club at Al Shiwayb Centre reflects the noble
values upheld by our wise leadership, led by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin
Zayed Al Nahyan, through various initiatives and development projects. It also underscores the
dedication of Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, to the wellbeing of senior
citizens. Her forward-looking vision focuses on empowering seniors and enhancing their quality
of life by providing a safe, encouraging environment that allows them to continue giving and
actively engage in society."
Al Rumaithi emphasised that the Barakat Al Dar Club is one of the foundation's key initiatives as
part of its broader strategy to offer comprehensive and sustainable services for senior citizens.
As of May 14, 2025, the Barakat Al Dar Clubs had 3,536 registered members, and a total of
85,841 individuals had participated in and benefited from club activities across Abu Dhabi.
Al Rumaithi further highlighted that the club delivers a wide range of programmes tailored to the
health, psychological, and social needs of seniors.
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