Dubai, UAE — President Sheikh Mohamed has officially declared 2026 as the Year of the Family, reaffirming the UAE’s deep commitment to its heritage and shared identity. Speaking at the Government Annual Meetings in Abu Dhabi, he described the family as “a vital pillar of our nation’s future progress.”
He also launched the National Family Growth Agenda 2031, a long-term plan designed to strengthen family bonds and preserve Emirati traditions. According to Sheikh Mohamed, family growth directly shapes the country’s unity, stability, and long-term security. Moreover, it ensures that modern progress does not come at the cost of cultural roots.
A coordinated plan to preserve traditions
The plan will place Emirati culture at the centre of national development. To make this vision a reality, more than 20 federal and local entities will collaborate through a new national task force. Together, they will design stronger family policies, introduce behavioural programmes, and improve reproductive health support.
In addition, the task force will review existing initiatives and examine the social factors influencing family growth. Through this process, the UAE aims to protect its traditions while empowering the next generation. As Sheikh Mohamed said, a strong family builds a strong nation, and safeguarding both is essential for progress.
A shared duty to protect values
Furthermore, Sheikh Mohamed stressed that building and protecting families is a shared national responsibility. He explained that the Ministry of Family was established to promote education, values, and identity rooted in Emirati culture. He also urged citizens, institutions, and local communities to take part in this shared mission.
“Family growth and stability are a shared national responsibility,” he wrote on X. He added that collective participation ensures that every Emirati plays a role in preserving the nation’s traditions and moral foundation.
Culture at the heart of modern progress
Meanwhile, the announcement came during meetings that also focused on technology, tourism, and economic development. Despite these modern priorities, Sheikh Mohamed reminded the nation that genuine progress must always begin with cultural strength and family unity.
Likewise, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, expressed pride in the UAE’s shared goals and achievements. As 2026 approaches, the plan stands as a promise to grow with innovation, yet remain deeply anchored in culture, values, and the timeless spirit of the Emirates.
