GDRFA initiative with CDA comes with a message of gratitude to the elderly Emiratis

Dubai: Dozens of senior Emirati citizens living alone in Dubai received a special surprise for the Eid Al Fitr this time.

Officials from the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai D(GDRFA) visited them with special gifts to mark the joyous occasion.

GDRFA said it launched the initiative to distribute "Eid treats" to senior citizens under the "Waleef" programme, in collaboration with the Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai.

The initiative, which is in line with its commitment to fostering social cohesion and promoting values of generosity and connection, is part of a series of community-driven activities organised by the GDRFA as part of the "Year of the Community” in the UAE aimed at strengthening social stability and reinforcing bonds among members of society.

As part of the initiative, 48 senior citizens registered in the "Waleef" programme were visited in their homes, where they received Eid treats and traditional sweets, bringing joy and warmth to them during this special occasion.

The "Waleef" programme is one of the key initiatives of the CDA, dedicated to supporting senior citizens who live alone by providing them with social, healthcare, and rehabilitation services at home.

These services are delivered by trained social specialists and caregivers, ensuring their well-being while maintaining their dignity, independence, and quality of life. The programme also works to address their individual needs through a comprehensive care plan, fostering continuous engagement and connection with society.

The gifts were accompanied by a special message of gratitude which reads: “Eid Mubarak! Your presence among us is highly  appreciated and deeply valued. You hold a special place in everyone’s hearts. May Allah bless your days with joy, good health, and lasting happiness.”

Lieutenant Colonel Faisal Abdullah Bin Blilah Al Muhairi, Deputy Assistant Director General for Institutional Support Affairs, pointed out that this initiative reflects the General Directorate's strong commitment to social responsibility toward senior citizens. He highlighted that strengthening human connections is a core part of the General Directorate’s strategy to support social stability, aligning with Dubai’s vision of becoming a global model for social cohesion and quality of life enhancement.

Bin Blilah further stated: “We believe that giving back is not just about providing services but also about launching meaningful initiatives that strengthen social ties. Senior citizens deserve all the support and appreciation, and this initiative is a token of gratitude for them. We continuously strive to develop similar initiatives that uphold the deeply rooted values of our society, ensuring care and respect for all individuals."

This initiative is also part of the broader "Eid in Dubai" campaign, which aims to revive the festive spirit of Eid and reinforce the concept of social compassion among all segments of society.

It underscores the importance of collaboration between government entities in achieving social harmony and preserving the authentic Emirati values of generosity and solidarity, the GDRFA said.