UAE Charts Comprehensive National Strategy for People of Determination
A strategic workshop convened by the Ministry of Family, chaired by H.H. Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, brings together senior government leaders to shape priorities for empowerment and inclusion.
The United Arab Emirates has taken a significant step forward in advancing support for People of Determination through a high-level strategic workshop organised by the Ministry of Family in Abu Dhabi. Chaired by H.H. Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice Chairperson of the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council, the gathering assembled key figures from federal and local government entities to establish national priorities and implementation frameworks.
The workshop represents a pivotal moment in shaping a comprehensive national strategy that extends well beyond the provision of essential services. Instead, it reflects the nation’s commitment to enabling every individual to realise their full potential and participate actively in all aspects of society. Discussions centred on strengthening coordination across government levels, enhancing governance structures, and establishing clear mechanisms for measuring outcomes and impact.
H.H. Sheikha Mariam emphasised the transformative vision underpinning these efforts: “The UAE’s vision for People of Determination extends beyond access to services; it is centred on enabling every individual to realise their potential and participate fully in society. Our focus is on building an integrated system that supports people across every stage of life, strengthens outcomes for families, and creates pathways for learning, employment, participation, and independence.”
Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, Minister of Family, underscored the importance of anchoring policy development in lived experience. She stressed that People of Determination and their families must serve as genuine partners in shaping strategies and initiatives, working alongside government entities, experts and stakeholders from multiple sectors. This collaborative approach ensures that policies and services reflect authentic understanding of individual needs and aspirations.
The strategic priorities identified encompass several critical dimensions. Participants explored the connection between inclusive, high-quality education and employment pathways, alongside broader opportunities for social participation. Attention was also given to developing accessible environments and services, investing in specialised talent, and strengthening support systems for families and caregivers. The next phase will focus on clarifying roles and responsibilities whilst establishing performance indicators to measure the strategy’s impact on quality of life and participation.
This initiative builds upon extensive preliminary engagement, including interviews with more than sixty stakeholders and a multi-sector workshop involving fifty participants. The development process also incorporates international benchmarking and expert consultation, ensuring that global best practices inform the strategy whilst remaining grounded in the nation’s distinctive values and circumstances.
Source: WAM