Abu Dhabi's Agreement To Enhance Inclusivity For People Of Determination And The Elderly

The Department of Community Development (DCD) in Abu Dhabi has partnered with the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) and the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA). This collaboration focuses on the People of Determination and Elderly Inclusive City Project, aligning with strategies to support these groups and enhance family wellbeing.

Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of DCD, expressed enthusiasm for this collaboration. He stated, "The memorandum of understanding with the Department of Municipalities and Transport and the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority reflects our wise leadership’s vision to enhance quality of life for all segments of society. This agreement ensures that policies and services are comprehensive, aiming to strengthen the bonds of social cohesion and provide a dignified life for everyone, in line with the emirate’s strategic goals of building an integrated and sustainable society."

The agreement aims to transform Abu Dhabi into an inclusive city for people of determination, the elderly, and families. The project will expand beyond Yas Island to other areas in the emirate. The partners will use their expertise to develop incentive tools that promote inclusivity across various sectors.

Dr. Laila Al Hayas from DCD, Dr. Salem Al Kaabi from DMT, and Dr. Hessa Al Kaabi from ECA signed the agreement. They plan to submit applications for international recognition to highlight Abu Dhabi's leadership in inclusion.

Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of DMT, highlighted their commitment to this initiative. He said, "We are pleased to partner with the Department of Community Development and the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority on the Inclusive City project for People of Determination and the elderly. Our goal is to leverage our expertise to create a community that allows easy access to services through well-prepared infrastructure, appropriate facilities, and enhanced mobility; ultimately improving the quality of life and societal integration for all family members."

The partnership also involves developing a comprehensive action plan for submission to the World Health Organization. This aims at securing membership as an age-friendly city while focusing on creating a family-friendly environment across Abu Dhabi.

Commitment to Quality Life

Sana Mohamed Suhail from ECA emphasised their dedication to making Abu Dhabi more inclusive. She noted that this initiative reflects the government's commitment to building an environment aligned with future aspirations. "Our shared vision is to make Abu Dhabi a family friendly Emirate where people can grow and flourish," she said.

This initiative includes conducting joint social studies aimed at improving life quality in Abu Dhabi. It also focuses on learning from global practices in inclusion while prioritising early childhood development.

The collaboration between government entities is crucial for achieving significant milestones in line with long-term policies. The Inclusive City Project represents a step forward in enhancing life quality while setting a model for sustainable urban environments.

This initiative aims at positioning Abu Dhabi as a global destination where every individual can thrive regardless of age or background. The focus remains on creating environments that facilitate easy access to services for all residents.

With inputs from WAM