Abu Dhabi Boosts Emirati Families: Sheikh Khaled Approves Next Phase of Growth Initiative

Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has given his approval for the latest stage of a significant government strategy designed to strengthen the Emirati family unit throughout the capital. Launched initially in 2024, the Emirati Family Growth Programme is considered vital for ensuring citizens remain central to the nation's ongoing development, according to Sheikh Khaled. He articulated the emirate's future vision while presiding over a meeting of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, which took place during the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2026.

The second phase of the program, managed by the Department of Community Development, introduces a range of initiatives focused on preparing younger generations for family life, enhancing family unity, and encouraging greater involvement from the private sector and the broader community. This initiative utilizes social data to ensure its policies are precisely tailored to the unique needs of Emirati families at different life stages. Sheikh Khaled highlighted that investing in the growth and stability of families represents an investment in the nation's human capital and its future prosperity.

The initial phase of the family growth program enhanced the support network for citizens, offering financial loans, rent assistance for up to four years, and housing loan deductions following the birth of a family's fourth, fifth, and sixth child. Participants are also eligible for extended maternity leave of up to 90 days and deferred housing loan repayments, also commencing with the birth of their fourth, fifth, and sixth child. Additionally, a home-visit service was established to support new parents during their initial weeks.

Separately, the Executive Council reviewed the progress of plans to establish Abu Dhabi as a premier center for organ donation, transplantation, and advanced healthcare. The success of the emirate's organ transplant network, which has performed 2,500 procedures since its inception in 2017, was presented. The council was informed that one-year post-transplant success rates have reached 96.5 percent, positioning Abu Dhabi among the global leaders in this field. The Department of Health presented findings on a public awareness campaign aimed at underscoring the significance of organ donation in providing life-saving opportunities.

Sheikh Khaled emphasized that organ donation embodies the highest principles of generosity and solidarity, stressing the critical role of the public in offering life-saving support. The council also addressed Abu Dhabi’s Integrated Water Strategy, overseen by the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, which aims to bolster water security and sustainability, improve efficiency, and meet the demands of economic and population growth. Updates were also provided on various government projects intended to enhance the quality of life for citizens and residents.