The UAE Ministry of Family has launched the ‘Family First’ programme, a nationwide initiative aimed at strengthening family cohesion and improving public spaces for parents and children.
The announcement was made during the World Governments Summit 2026 in Dubai, held from 3 to 5 February under the theme ‘Shaping Future Governments’.
Part of the National Family Growth Agenda 2031, the programme focuses on simple, practical interventions in urban and social spaces to make family-oriented services more visible and accessible. These include priority parking for expectant mothers, designated family seating on public transport, and ‘Family & Child Oasis Rooms’ in public venues for quiet moments or infant care.
Her Excellency Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, Minister of Family, highlighted the programme’s role in promoting positive community behaviours and supporting parenthood in daily life. She emphasized that the initiative relies on clear visual symbols and small design changes rather than major infrastructure overhauls, ensuring a notable impact on families’ quality of life.
The programme will initially roll out in Dubai, with plans to expand nationwide. Partnerships with Dubai Municipality, Majid Al Futtaim Group, and Union Coop aim to integrate family-friendly features across public spaces, retail environments, and transport services. Officials stressed that these collaborations align urban planning and social policy to enhance family cohesion, community interaction, and overall well-being.
Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, noted that the initiative reflects a human-centric approach to city planning, while leaders from Union Coop and Majid Al Futtaim highlighted the programme’s role in fostering inclusive, safe, and welcoming environments for families.
The launch coincides with 2026 being designated the ‘Year of the Family’ by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to placing families at the centre of sustainable social development.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
