UAE expands social support for Emirati families and employees

The UAE is expanding social support systems for Emirati citizens through new salary initiatives and community programs. The Nafis program has announced that its Family Year initiatives will begin in September 2026. This includes salary support for the wives of Emirati citizens working in the private and banking sectors, as well as support for the children of Emirati women working in those sectors. Financial support is set to range between 1,000 and 3,000 AED, subject to specific eligibility criteria including employment in registered entities and minimum educational qualifications.

Simultaneously, the ‘Dubai Weddings’ initiative has evolved from a wedding celebration service into a comprehensive support system for young families. Under the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme, the initiative provides pre-marital training, financial and housing guidance, and family counseling. As of August 2026, the program has helped establish 1,411 Emirati families and facilitated 2,898 weddings. The initiative aims to reduce financial burdens on young citizens and promote social stability in alignment with the Dubai Social Agenda 33.