HH Sheikh Mohammed
Photo: @hhshkmohd Instagram

For the better part of two decades His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has spearheaded the development of Dubai which has seen the city catapult on the global stage.

Now, as he recently celebrated 18 years as the Ruler of Dubai, His Highness unveiled a landmark new initiative aiming to directly target Emirati families and the advancement of their wellbeing in the emirate.

Known as the Dubai Social Agenda 33, the 10-year plan revolves around the theme of “Family: The Foundation of Our Nation” which encompasses a budget of Dhs208 billion until the year 2033.

“Its target is our Emirati families in Dubai and all aspects of their lives, in terms of housing, quality of life, identity and values, social cohesion and healthcare, as well as equipping the new generation with future skills,” he specified.

The mammoth project will be overseen by His Highness’ sons, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Minister of Finance and Deputy Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and the Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, as well as their brothers.

“The Dubai Social Agenda outlines clear objectives and programmes based on the allocated budget and will be overseen by my sons Hamdan, Maktoum, Ahmed and their brothers who grew up as part of the larger Dubai family and will care about its well-being more than anyone else. Our nation is not merely buildings and figures; it is made up of families and people. My message to everyone in charge is that our priority for the next stage is to protect, empower and support our families.”

With five main goals, the overall aim of the Dubai Social Agenda 33 is to improve the lives of Emirati families in the emirate.

Firstly, the agenda aims to help families to stay connected to their national identity and local values, as well as encouraging Dubai Emirati families to be financially independent in the hopes of fostering social balance.

In addition, a top priority under the agenda is the development of a more effective healthcare system, placing an increased emphasis on leading a healthy lifestyle with a particular emphasis on nutrition, exercise and mental wellbeing.

Another main goal of the Dubai Social Agenda 33 plan is to develop education in the emirate, which aims to give more people access to high-quality, affordable education.

The fourth goal of the Dubai Social Agenda 33 is the creation of a more effective social structure in Dubai, as well as providing equitable opportunities to the community and encouraging volunteering and humanitarian endeavours among individuals and organisations.

Ultimately, the goal of His Highness’ latest initiative is to enhance several elements that contribute to Dubai’s outstanding reputation. Namely, housing facilities, infrastructure, services for finding talented athletes and programs showcasing Emirati culture and heritage are all on the list.

“My message to everyone in charge is that our priority for the next stage is to protect, empower and support our families,” he affirmed.