Sheikh Khaled approves latest stage of Abu Dhabi's Emirati family growth drive

Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed of Abu Dhabi endorsed the newest phase of the Emirati Family Growth Programme on Tuesday, underscoring its significance for the nation's development. The program, launched in 2024, seeks to bolster family units across the capital through various initiatives. At the Abu Dhabi Executive Council meeting, Sheikh Khaled stressed the importance of investing in families as a means to nurture the country's human capital and secure the future.

The second package of the scheme, managed by the Department of Community Development, comprises measures to prepare future generations for family life, enhance family cohesion, and foster contributions from the private sector and broader community. Leveraging social data, the program aims to tailor policies to the unique needs of Emirati families at different life stages.

First-stage enhancements under the program included financial loans, rent assistance for up to four years, and housing loan deductions following the birth of the fourth, fifth, and sixth child. Participants can also extend their maternity leave to 90 days and have housing loan repayments extended from the births of their fourth, fifth, and sixth child.

The Executive Council reviewed progress on Abu Dhabi's organ donation and transplantation efforts, with 2,500 procedures conducted since 2017, boasting a 96.5% one-year success rate among the highest globally. A public awareness campaign promoting organ donation was also launched, with Sheikh Khaled emphasizing its value as a demonstration of generosity and solidarity.

Additionally, the council discussed Abu Dhabi's Integrated Water Strategy, led by the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, aiming to strengthen water security and sustainability, improve efficiency, and keep up with economic and population growth. The discussion also covered other government projects designed to enhance the quality of life for citizens and residents.