Abu Dhabi: The Department of Community Development (DCD) in Abu Dhabi has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) and the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) to support the People of Determination and Elderly Inclusive City Project. This initiative aims to align with the Abu Dhabi Strategy for People of Determination, the Abu Dhabi Family Wellbeing Strategy, and the Family Growth Support Programme.
According to Emirates News Agency, the signing ceremony was attended by key officials including Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of DCD, Hamad Al Dhahri, Under-Secretary of DCD, and Dr. Saif Al Nasri, Under-Secretary of DMT. The agreement was signed by Dr. Laila Al Hayas, Executive Director of the Community Development Sector, Dr. Salem Al Kaabi, Director-General of Operations Affairs at DMT, and Dr. Hessa Al Kaabi, Executive Director of the Special Projects and Partnerships Sector at ECA.
The agreement seeks to enhance cooperation between t
he three entities to transform Abu Dhabi into an inclusive and accessible city for people of determination and the elderly. This project will expand beyond Yas Island to other areas within the emirate, employing expertise and resources necessary for this transition.
The collaboration will also focus on developing sustainable incentive tools to facilitate Abu Dhabi’s transformation across various sectors into an inclusive city. It includes efforts to submit applications for international memberships and global award nominations to highlight Abu Dhabi’s status as a leader in inclusion.
Part of the initiative involves presenting a comprehensive action plan to the World Health Organization to secure membership as an age-friendly city. Additionally, the parties will work on developing a family-friendly city concept and implementation plan, along with conducting joint social studies to improve the quality of life in Abu Dhabi.
Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili commented on the agreement, stating it reflects the leade
rship’s vision to enhance life quality for all societal segments, ensuring comprehensive policies and services to strengthen social cohesion. He emphasized the importance of integrating people of determination and the elderly into society.
Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of DMT, expressed satisfaction with the partnership, highlighting the goal of creating a community with easy access to services through well-prepared infrastructure and facilities, ultimately improving societal integration.
Sana Mohamed Suhail, Director-General of ECA, underscored the Authority’s commitment to collaboration for a more inclusive Abu Dhabi, focusing on enhancing life quality for residents and aligning with the Emirate’s vision and aspirations. She emphasized prioritizing early years for brain development and innovating to establish Abu Dhabi’s global position as an inclusive Emirate.
