Public Policy Document

Developed by the Ministry of Community Development in 2018, the National Family Policy leverages the continuous efforts of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, to formulate policies and action plans that consolidate and safeguard the cohesive aspect of the family system in the UAE community. 

The UAE’s National Family Policy aims to raise awareness among Emirati families on their rights and duties to further involve them in sustainable social development. It also seeks to shape future-ready married Emirati couples, capable of coping with the responsibilities of marriage and the challenges of life, as well as maintaining the stability and sustainability of family life. 

The vision of the National Family Policy is “A cohesive and responsible Emirati family that enjoys stability in today’s world". It focuses primarily on the key needs of families, notably financial security, stability, healthcare, education, social services, acceptable living standards, security and safety, flexible government procedures, human rights, and housing.
 

1. Support the formation of Emirati families and their skills in coping with the challenges of marriage. 
2. Uphold the values of maintaining the stability and cohesion of the family.
3. Provide a healthy and supportive environment to assist Emirati families in coping with the pressures of life.
4. Enhance the capabilities of Emirati families to nurture promising generations who are willing to honor their responsibilities towards the community and the UAE, whilst being proud of their national identity and committed to its noble values and principles.
5. Enhance the wellbeing and happiness of Emirati families through family cohesion.
    

1. Marriage.
   • Prepare young Emirati men and women, planning for marriage, to undertake the responsibilities and expectations of marriage.
   • Ensure financial security for soon-to-be-married young Emiratis.
   • Promote the culture of reducing the costs of wedding ceremonies.
   • Enhance community awareness of the importance of family.
2. Family relations.
   • Enhance communication among family members.
   • Reduce the rate of family conflicts.
   • Develop financial planning skills and financial literacy.
3. Balance of roles.
   • Highlight the importance of the father’s role in family care.
   • Highlight the importance of the mother’s role in family care.
   • Promote parenting concepts among widowers and divorcees.
4. Childcare.
   • Reduce dependence on domestic staff in caregiving roles.
   • Develop and enhance early childhood services.
   • Ensure balance between work and family life.
5. Family protection.
   • Support and protect children from violence.
   • Support and protect families.
6. Framework.
   • Improve the provision of family services.
   • Develop social security policies catered to the families’ needs.
   • Provide data on families.
   • Provide specialized staff in all areas related to family and children.

1. Promote family happiness by fostering cohesion and solidarity.
2. Enhance the mental well-being of all family members.
3. Improve the quality of life for individuals in society and help them navigate various challenges they may face.
4. Enhance the capabilities of Emirati families to nurture promising generations who are willing to honor their responsibilities towards the community and the UAE, whilst being proud of their national identity and committed to its noble values and principles.

All members of Emirati families.