Sheikh Hamdan approves new strategic initiatives to empower Dubai families
Vibrant Dubai programme promotes health, fitness and workplace well-being
DUBAI – His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, and Chairman of the Higher Committee for Development and Citizens Affairs in Dubai, has approved a comprehensive package of strategic initiatives.
The measures are designed to enhance citizens’ quality of life, strengthen Emirati families, and create an integrated social and development system aligned with the Dubai Social Agenda 33.
The approval was announced during the first 2026 meeting of the Higher Committee for Development and Citizens Affairs, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Key initiatives include the second phase of the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme, the third phase of the Community Majalis project, the Vibrant Dubai initiative for government employees’ health, and the Barzat Dubai project offering neighbourhood community spaces.
Family empowerment
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum emphasised that family stability is central to Dubai’s sustainable progress. “Investing in the family delivers lasting impact for future generations and reinforces the values that define Dubai’s community,” he said.
At the first meeting of the Higher Committee for Development and Citizens Affairs in 2026, we approved key strategic initiatives aimed at reinforcing the family's role as the foundation of our society. We believe that strong families build strong cities, that quality of life… pic.twitter.com/SQXdqmS91m
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) March 15, 2026
The Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme continues its mission to support Emirati families, with the second phase introducing new initiatives and projects. The Dubai Weddings Programme has organised 1,077 weddings to date, covering 43.5% of citizens’ weddings in Dubai – a 44% increase from previous figures. In parallel, the Dubai Family-Friendly Strategy seeks to create an integrated ecosystem that supports families at every life stage, enhancing stability and overall quality of life.
Community engagement
The Community Majalis project is entering its third phase, expanding access to neighbourhood social spaces. Four new majalis will open in Nad Al Sheba, Al Awir, Al Warqa, and Al Barsha South, followed by five additional majalis in Nad Al Hamar, Jumeirah, Ghadeer Al Tair, Al Twar, and Lehbab. The Dh160 million project is set to commence in the second quarter of 2026, with completion anticipated in the third quarter of 2027.
The Barzat Dubai initiative introduces a modern neighbourhood majalis model to enhance social cohesion. The Community Development Authority and Dubai Municipality will implement the project across residential areas, exploring expansion opportunities throughout the emirate.
Vibrant Dubai
Designed to improve workplace well-being, the Vibrant Dubai initiative offers medical screenings, physical fitness assessments, and psychological readiness programmes for Dubai Government employees. The initiative reflects His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s vision of integrating health, fitness, and lifestyle into the city’s development framework, contributing to the broader goals of the Dubai Social Agenda 33.
Additionally, he approved a second branch of Thukher Club at the Quranic Park in Al Khawaneej, building on the success of the first branch at Al Safa Park, further enhancing public access to community and recreational facilities.