The UAE has officially declared 2026 as the Year of the Family, and at its heart, the message is simple: strong families build strong societies.

Announced under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Year of the Family puts the spotlight on what has always been a cornerstone of life in the UAE, close-knit families, shared values and collective responsibility.

Far from being symbolic, the initiative is about recognising the family as the starting point of everything from social stability to national identity.

For decades, the UAE has placed people at the centre of development. Families here are not viewed simply as traditional units, but as spaces where values are shaped, identity is formed, and future generations are nurtured. That philosophy has guided national policies focused on wellbeing, education, healthcare and social protection.

Dispute resolution

Over the years, this approach has taken shape through modern family-focused legislation, updated personal status laws and dedicated dispute resolution centres designed to protect children, women and the elderly. Child protection remains a key priority, with laws like the Wadeema Law strengthening safeguards and ensuring the best interests of children are always front and centre.

The Year of the Family builds on this foundation and aims to accelerate progress. It will bring together government entities, the private sector and civil society to launch new initiatives, community programmes and research projects that support family life at every stage, from early childhood to parenthood and beyond.

Working parents support

Supporting working parents is also a major focus. Policies around flexible work, maternity and paternity leave, workplace nurseries and women’s empowerment continue to evolve, helping families balance modern life without compromising connection at home.

Housing, healthcare and education remain critical pillars too. From family-friendly neighbourhoods and green spaces to mental health services and early childhood development programmes, the UAE’s family-first approach is designed to improve quality of life in practical, measurable ways.

• The Year of the Family revolves around three key ideas:
  Roots, by strengthening values and intergenerational bonds;
  Connections, by encouraging communication and closeness at home, and
  Growth, by giving families the tools they need to thrive.

At its core, the message is clear: When families are supported, society grows stronger, the future of the nation becomes more secure.

Dubai is adding a new, heartwarming touch to its urban landscape, and it’s all about compassion.

Dubai Municipality has announced the launch of the “Fountains of Mercy” project, an initiative that will see 50 dedicated water fountains installed across the emirate to provide drinking water for birds and wild animals.

The project reflects Dubai’s growing focus on environmental sustainability, biodiversity protection and humane urban design, while echoing the values of mercy and generosity championed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE,  and Ruler of Dubai.

Relief during intense heat

Under the plan, 25 fountains will be placed in urban areas for birds, while another 25 will be installed in desert and rural locations to support wild animals. Built from durable, high-quality materials, the fountains are designed for long-term use, easy maintenance and year-round operation, including during the UAE’s intense summer heat.

In a sustainability-first move, the fountains will be powered by solar energy and operate using water-efficient systems that meet international environmental standards.

Dubai Municipality said the initiative is backed by a charitable endowment from a Dubai-based benefactor, highlighting how community-driven generosity continues to play a role in shaping the city’s development.

Heading to Dubai International Airport (DXB) just got a whole lot smoother.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), working with Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP), has officially opened an expanded bridge leading to Terminal 1 at DXB, and it’s a big relief for travellers.

The upgrade increases traffic lanes from three to four, boosting capacity by 33 per cent. That means the bridge can now handle up to 5,600 vehicles per hour, easing congestion, cutting journey times and making airport drop-offs far less stressful.

The project is part of a wider push to keep Dubai’s road network in step with the city’s rapid growth, especially around Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest airport for international passengers.

What’s impressive is how it was built. Engineers used an innovative steel-and-concrete design that allowed construction to move fast without closing lanes or disrupting traffic on Airport Street. 

Beyond the extra lane, the project also included road resurfacing, upgraded utilities, new street lighting and landscaping to seamlessly connect the bridge with surrounding roads, improving safety and visibility for drivers.

For anyone heading to catch a flight, your ride to DXB just got quicker.