Dubai’s Commitment to Building Strong Families
In a remarkable initiative designed to strengthen families and foster social stability, Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum, wife of the UAE’s Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has launched the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme. This program is a comprehensive effort to provide financial, social, and educational support to Emirati families, ensuring that they have the resources needed to thrive in an ever-evolving society.
Sheikha Hind’s initiative is grounded in the belief that a cohesive, stable family unit is essential for building a prosperous future. The programme offers a range of benefits and services that cater to the diverse needs of modern Emirati families, while also preserving and promoting the cultural values that form the backbone of Emirati society.
A Multifaceted Approach to Family Empowerment
The Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme goes beyond traditional support systems, offering an array of resources that ensure every aspect of a family’s well-being is addressed. The programme’s offerings are particularly designed to alleviate financial burdens, promote work-life balance, and educate young couples about responsible life planning. Some of the key elements of the programme include:
- Generous Wedding Support: Acknowledging the significance of marriage in Emirati culture, the programme provides substantial financial assistance to couples, including full coverage of wedding ceremony expenses, access to free wedding halls and Majlises, and discounts through the Esaad card.
- Affordable Housing for Newlyweds: Through collaboration with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment, the programme ensures that young couples benefit from affordable housing options. The programme provides ready-made housing for those participating in the Dubai Weddings Programme, allowing couples to start their new life in a stable and comfortable environment.
- Flexible Work Benefits: The programme introduces several groundbreaking work policies aimed at supporting family life. Among these is the introduction of a 10-day paid marriage leave for government employees in Dubai. Additionally, mothers can enjoy the option of working remotely on Fridays during their first year post-maternity leave, helping to balance career and family responsibilities.
- Education and Awareness Programs: The programme offers a wide range of educational resources for young couples. These include courses on financial literacy, marriage planning, and home building. The goal is to provide couples with the knowledge and tools necessary to create financially stable, emotionally fulfilling, and successful family lives.
- Expanding the Initiative: The programme is designed to grow over time, introducing new services and benefits as needed. Future phases will expand into areas such as healthcare, further educational initiatives, and more extensive social services, all aimed at further improving the quality of life for Emirati families.
A Long-Term Vision for Family Prosperity
Aligned with Dubai’s Social Agenda 33, which seeks to double the number of Emirati families by 2033, the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme is not just a short-term initiative but a long-term investment in the future of the nation. By strengthening the family unit, the programme aims to create a solid foundation for a cohesive and prosperous society, where families are empowered to thrive and contribute to the development of the UAE.
“We are committed to creating a society where families have the resources, support, and stability they need to build a brighter future. This programme is an essential part of that vision, ensuring that Emirati families have everything they need to flourish in a changing world,” said Sheikha Hind.
As Dubai continues to evolve as a global hub for innovation and progress, initiatives like the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme will play a crucial role in shaping a future where Emirati families are empowered to succeed, fostering a sense of belonging and prosperity across the emirate.