Abu Dhabi

🤝

Community and Social Services

Sections

1. Overview of Community and Social Services in Abu Dhabi

Community and social services in Abu Dhabi are primarily managed by government entities, semi-government organizations, and non-profit organizations. These services aim to support individuals and families in areas such as housing, financial assistance, healthcare, education, disability support, family welfare, and community engagement.

Key government entities involved include:

  • Department of Community Development (DCD): Oversees social services and ensures inclusivity and well-being for all residents.
  • Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (ZHO): Provides services for individuals with disabilities.
  • Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority (SSA): Offers financial and social support to low-income Emirati families.
  • Family Development Foundation (FDF): Focuses on family welfare, counseling, and empowerment programs.
  • TAMM (Abu Dhabi Government Services): A centralized platform for accessing government services.

2. Types of Community and Social Services

A. Financial Assistance and Social Support

  • Who is eligible?

    • Emirati citizens (priority is given to low-income families, widows, orphans, and individuals with disabilities).
    • Expatriates may not qualify for direct financial aid but can access other forms of support through their embassies or community organizations.

  • Services offered:

    • Monthly financial aid for eligible Emirati families.
    • Emergency financial assistance for those in crisis.
    • Subsidized housing or rent assistance for Emiratis.

  • Costs: Free for eligible Emiratis.

  • How to access:

    1. Visit the Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority (SSA) website or TAMM portal.
    2. Submit an application with required documents (Emirates ID, proof of income, family details).
    3. Await assessment and approval.

B. Disability Support (People of Determination)

  • Who is eligible?

    • Emiratis and expatriates with disabilities (referred to as "People of Determination").

  • Services offered:

    • Rehabilitation programs, therapy, and vocational training.
    • Assistive devices and technology.
    • Inclusive education support.
    • Employment opportunities and workplace accommodations.

  • Key organization: Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (ZHO).

  • Costs: Free or subsidized for Emiratis; expatriates may incur costs depending on the service.

  • How to access:

    1. Register with ZHO or a relevant healthcare provider.
    2. Submit medical reports and disability certification.
    3. Participate in an assessment to determine eligibility and required services.

C. Family Welfare and Counseling

  • Who is eligible?

    • Emirati and expatriate families.

  • Services offered:

    • Marriage counseling and family dispute resolution.
    • Parenting workshops and child development programs.
    • Support for victims of domestic violence.

  • Key organization: Family Development Foundation (FDF).

  • Costs: Free for Emiratis; nominal fees may apply for expatriates.

  • How to access:

    1. Contact the FDF through their website or visit a local branch.
    2. Schedule an appointment for counseling or workshops.
    3. Attend sessions as per the provided schedule.

D. Housing and Rent Assistance

  • Who is eligible?

    • Emirati citizens (priority for low-income families and widows).

  • Services offered:

    • Government-subsidized housing.
    • Rent assistance for eligible families.

  • Key organization: Abu Dhabi Housing Authority.

  • Costs: Free for eligible Emiratis.

  • How to access:

    1. Apply through the Abu Dhabi Housing Authority or TAMM portal.
    2. Submit required documents (Emirates ID, proof of income, family details).
    3. Await approval and allocation.

E. Community Engagement and Volunteering

  • Who is eligible?

    • All residents, including Emiratis and expatriates.

  • Services offered:

    • Volunteering opportunities through the Emirates Foundation and other organizations.
    • Community events, cultural programs, and workshops.
    • Youth empowerment initiatives.

  • Costs: Free.

  • How to access:

    1. Register on the Volunteers.ae platform or through the Emirates Foundation.
    2. Browse available opportunities and sign up for events or programs.

F. Elderly Care

  • Who is eligible?

    • Emirati senior citizens (priority for those without family support).

  • Services offered:

    • Home care services, including medical and social support.
    • Daycare centers for the elderly.
    • Recreational and social activities.

  • Key organization: Department of Community Development (DCD).

  • Costs: Free for Emiratis.

  • How to access:

    1. Contact the DCD or TAMM portal.
    2. Submit an application with required documents (Emirates ID, medical reports).
    3. Await assessment and approval.

G. Child Protection Services

  • Who is eligible?

    • All children in Abu Dhabi, regardless of nationality.

  • Services offered:

    • Protection from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
    • Counseling and rehabilitation for affected children.
    • Helpline for reporting child abuse: 800 555.

  • Key organization: Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA).

  • Costs: Free.

  • How to access:

    1. Report incidents via the child protection helpline or TAMM portal.
    2. Authorities will investigate and provide necessary support.

3. Cultural Considerations

  • Respect for Local Customs: Abu Dhabi is a culturally rich and conservative city. Visitors and immigrants should respect local customs, including dress codes and social norms, when accessing community services.
  • Language: While Arabic is the official language, most services are available in English to accommodate expatriates.
  • Gender Segregation: Some services, such as counseling or workshops, may be gender-segregated in line with cultural norms.
  • Privacy: The UAE places a strong emphasis on privacy and confidentiality, especially in sensitive areas like family counseling and child protection.

4. Key Platforms for Accessing Services

5. Final Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  • Documentation: Always carry your Emirates ID and other relevant documents when applying for services.
  • Eligibility: Understand that some services are exclusive to Emirati citizens, while others are open to all residents.
  • Community Networks: Join expatriate or cultural community groups to stay informed about available resources and support systems.
  • Emergency Numbers: Save important helpline numbers, such as child protection (800 555) and police (999), for quick access in emergencies.

By leveraging these services and understanding the cultural context, visitors and immigrants can navigate Abu Dhabi’s community and social support systems effectively.