The UAE’s leadership placed the family at the center of national priorities as President Sheikh Mohamed launched the National Family Growth Agenda 2031 during the closing session of the Government Annual Meetings in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.
Sheikh Mohamed said the family is “a vital pillar of our nation’s future progress”, announcing that 2026 will be observed as the “Year of the Family”. The new agenda outlines a long-term plan to promote family values and strengthen the role of families in preserving Emirati culture and identity.
“The National Family Growth Agenda 2031, launched today at the Government Annual Meetings, sets out a long-term strategic vision that recognizes the family as a vital pillar of our nation’s future progress”, Sheikh Mohamed wrote on X. “As a cornerstone of the community and the cradle of our shared values and identity, the family’s growth and stability are a collective priority and a shared national responsibility".
The initiative introduces a national task force comprising more than 20 federal and local entities to coordinate work on family-related policies, behavioral initiatives, and reproductive health. According to the state news agency Wam, the task force will review existing programs, study social factors influencing family development and update reproductive health measures.
Sheikh Mohamed stressed that the stability and growth of the Emirati family are tied to the country’s identity, future, and national security, adding that “The family is the foundation of any strong society”. He also noted that the Ministry of Family was created to develop strategies that promote growth and reinforce traditional values through education and community engagement.
He said the ministry’s mission extends beyond policy, calling family development “a shared responsibility” that involves the entire society.
This year’s Government Annual Meetings, which began Monday with sessions involving the UAE Cabinet, five federal councils and national committees, also addressed topics such as artificial intelligence, economic diversification, tourism, humanitarian aid and industrial development.
At the conclusion of the meetings, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, wrote on X, “Today, we concluded the annual meetings of the UAE Government. We were brought together by shared priorities, unified goals and common challenges".
"We take pride in our achievements, we discuss our future and we unite our efforts and energies to build a better life for people in the Emirates".