ABU DHABI, 24th April 2025 (WAM) -- H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the “Mother of the Nation,” Chairwoman of the General Women's Union (GWU), President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF), said that the UAE, under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, places senior citizens at the forefront of national priorities.
She emphasised that the UAE’s proactive approach has made it a leading nation in protecting the rights and enhancing the well-being of senior citizens by providing a supportive environment that ensures their quality of life and assists those who care for them. This reflects the country's wise vision in adopting a comprehensive strategy to elevate the quality of life for senior citizens, establishing the UAE as a regional and global model in this regard.
In celebration of the launch of the “Barakatna” Initiative by the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi (DCD) and the Family Development Foundation, in collaboration with various partners, H.H. Sheikha Fatima said, “This initiative enriches the lives of senior citizens by providing an inclusive, nurturing environment that allows them to live in dignity alongside their children and caregivers. It ensures the necessary resources for psychological, social stability, independence, and empowerment, both for the elderly and their families. This supports our national agenda to meet the living, healthcare, and social needs of senior citizens and underscores the UAE’s vision of building a sustainable and inclusive society.”
Sheikha Fatima praised all those involved in the care and support of senior citizens, and the significant role played by institutions through various initiatives, programmes, and projects aimed at delivering the best possible care for them.
She stressed the importance of constructive collaboration among stakeholders to empower senior citizens to live with dignity and independence, enabling them to enjoy lives of comfort, peace, and safety. This commitment reflects the UAE’s sense of social, humanitarian, and national responsibility and carries forward the noble legacy of the country’s founding fathers.
She also commended the specialised teams dedicated to senior care, stating that their remarkable efforts deserve recognition and appreciation. Their commitment exemplifies dedication, and they bear a profound responsibility that requires sensitivity and continuous care.
“They deserve our deepest gratitude for making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have given so much to our community throughout their lives,” Sheikha Fatima concluded.