New Dubai Law Expands Social Services & Welfare Support
The legislation introduces new measures focused on vulnerable groups, family wellbeing and community development.
A new legal framework governing social services in Dubai has been introduced, setting out measures aimed at strengthening support for vulnerable groups, expanding welfare programmes and enhancing community development initiatives across the emirate. The legislation establishes updated responsibilities for the Community Development Authority, including programmes focused on protecting and empowering children and people with disabilities, supporting unemployed individuals entering the labour market, promoting volunteering, and improving access to health, educational and recreational services. The law also assigns the authority responsibility for strengthening family and social cohesion, establishing community centres, and overseeing the licensing and regulation of social organisations and professionals. Additional provisions cover care for minors and individuals with limited or no legal capacity. Under the framework, social services, protection measures and welfare support will be provided in accordance with directives issued by courts and other competent authorities. A new social observatory will be established to monitor social trends and potential challenges affecting communities. The observatory will support early intervention efforts and maintain a comprehensive database covering different segments of society, with particular focus on vulnerable groups. The legislation also provides for the creation of a unified system, developed in partnership with relevant government entities, to manage humanitarian cases and coordinate support for residents requiring additional welfare assistance. A Community Development Fund will be established within the authority to provide financial and non-financial support to vulnerable groups and fund social development projects.
