Emiratis in Dubai hail ‘New Year gift’ from ruling family, thank Sheikh Mohammed and Sheikha Hind

Dubai: The Dubai leadership has once again demonstrated its dedication to supporting families and strengthening societal bonds with the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme and the Dh5.4billion housing project to support newlyweds.

Announced on Sunday by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the housing project for 3,000 young citizens starting families under the Dubai Weddings initiative would support the Family Programme launched by his wife Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum on Saturday, January 4, the Accession Day of Sheikh Mohammed as the Ruler of Dubai - which he dedicated to Sheikha Hind this time.

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These initiatives, designed to ease financial burdens and support work-life balance, have been warmly welcomed by Emiratis in Dubai.

From tackling the high costs of marriage to providing housing solutions and flexible work arrangements for parents, these measures address key challenges faced by young couples and working mothers, they said. Emiratis have expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Dubai’s ruling family, some describing the initiatives as a New Year gift that will foster stable families and a stronger, prosperous society.

For Hessa Al Obeidli, a mother of four whose fifth child is on its way, the announcement of Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme was a “New Year gift”.

“As a mother of children aged one to eight and carrying my fifth child, this news is fantastic for me,” said Hessa, who works with a multinational logistics and supply chain solutions provider based in Dubai.

The work-from-home Fridays for mothers will be a blessing for her, she said. “Balancing work and family has been challenging. This support makes life much easier,” she noted, adding that the initiative encourages the growth of larger Emirati families.

“This is more than financial aid. It is about quality time with our children and building stable, happy families.”

She said her entire family was happy as it is going to benefit her and her sister who is going to get married.

“For my sister, who is getting married soon, this is a wonderful surprise. Knowing her wedding and future stability are supported gives us all peace of mind,” Hessa shared.

“The initiatives offer essential support for couples getting married and mothers balancing work and family life. Such initiatives make a huge difference. We are truly grateful to Sheikha Hind and Sheikh Mohammed for the forward-thinking support that empowers families and strengthens society.”

Shurooq Al Banna, a mother of five and a government employee with 17 years of service, was also equally happy. “As a working mother, I find this kind of support is invaluable. The option for mothers to work from home on Fridays for a year after maternity is a big relief. It allows us to be there for our children, raising them well while balancing our careers,” said Shurooq, who works for a government department.

Also an award-winning public speaker, Shurooq pointed out that stability in any community starts with the family. “Families grounded in their traditions and values are the foundation for a prosperous society.”

While personally established, Shurooq noted the significance of such support for her unmarried siblings and the younger generation. “Many young Emiratis want to marry but some worry about housing and finances. These initiatives ease those concerns and encourages them to start families confidently. I have three younger siblings who are yet to get married. These initiatives will be helpful for them.”

Shurooq expressed gratitude for the leadership’s vision. “These initiatives remind us that families are at the heart of Dubai’s progress. It’s a blessing to have leaders who care so deeply for their people.”

Mohammed Abdullah Abdulrahman Al Hammadi, a visually impaired author and an expert in history and finance, praised Sheikha Hind as a “well of goodness”.

“Sheikha Hind is known for her dedication to initiatives that enhance family cohesion,” he said and appreciated her initiative that closely follows the establishment of a Ministry of Family in the country last month.

He noted the challenges some Emirati families face, such as the high costs of marriage. “The average cost of a wedding can exceed Dh300,000, which puts pressure on some families. This initiative gives young couples the support and confidence to begin their lives together,” Al Hammadi explained.

He said giving flexibility like work-from-home Fridays is a game-changer. “Parenting, especially for younger children, is a full-time job, and this support allows mothers to focus on raising their kids while balancing work.”

Mohammed also highlighted the broader impact of these initiatives. “They ensure a balanced, happy life for families, encouraging more women to join the workforce and fostering stability in society.”

Echoing similar views, Waleed Saeed Al Awadhi, a senior financial services regulatory official, highlighted the role of these initiatives in fostering a stable and prosperous economy. “Policies like these drive economic growth by focusing on the core of society—its people,” said Al Awadhi.

Al Awadhi, the author of a book on the sustainability of family businesses in the UAE, highlighted that strong family units are the foundation of a thriving society. “When households lack stability, it triggers a chain reaction of challenges. It’s not just about having a structure in place; without stability, the ripple effects can undermine national progress.”

He commended the leadership’s human-centric vision and approach, noting that their forward-thinking policies not only encourage the formation of families but also ensure their long-term strength and resilience. “By prioritising stable households, the leadership is securing a brighter future for both the city and the country. Stability at the household level directly influences economic growth and societal advancement,” Al Awadhi stated.

He added that these initiatives strengthen social units and create strong momentum for sustained economic development and harmony, illustrating the clear connection between well-being and a flourishing economy.