Dubai, April 1, 2026: The Ministry of Family UAE and Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) have signed a landmark partnership agreement aimed at supporting the “Family First” programme and enhancing quality of life across the emirate.
The initiative aligns with the objectives of the National Family Growth Agenda 2031, reinforcing the role of the Emirati family as a cornerstone of sustainable development, social cohesion, and national identity.
Integrated Approach to Family-Centric Urban Development
The agreement introduces a comprehensive framework that integrates social policy with urban planning. It focuses on developing a family-friendly environment across transport systems, infrastructure, public amenities, and urban spaces—ensuring that mobility and city design directly support family well-being.
Her Excellency Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, Minister of Family, described the partnership as a “qualitative step” in expanding the reach of the “Family First” programme into sectors that directly impact daily life.
“Through this collaboration, we translate the objectives of the National Family Growth Agenda 2031 into tangible design and operational standards across the transport system and urban facilities,” she said.
She emphasised that embedding family values into urban environments—through innovative, behaviourally informed design—will enhance comfort, accessibility, and overall user experience for families.
Strengthening Transport as a Social Enabler
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at RTA, highlighted the authority’s commitment to delivering sustainable social impact through strategic partnerships.
“The partnership with the Ministry of Family reflects RTA’s commitment to working closely with strategic partners to enhance integration and deliver sustainable social impact,” Al Tayer stated.
He added that the collaboration will establish new planning standards that embed family-oriented concepts into transport stations, public facilities, and urban development projects—further strengthening Dubai’s global leadership in human-centred urban planning.
Key Community-Focused Initiatives
As part of the agreement, RTA has introduced a series of initiatives aimed at easing daily life and improving accessibility for various segments of society:
- Exemption of senior Emiratis from parking fees
- Discounted public transport fares for senior Emiratis and students
- Full exemptions for People of Determination from Salik toll fees, parking charges, public transport fares, and vehicle registration and renewal fees
- 50% reduction in taxi fares and driver licensing fees for People of Determination
These measures are designed to promote inclusivity, reduce financial burdens, and ensure equitable access to mobility services.
Supporting the “Year of Family”
The partnership also complements broader initiatives introduced during the Year of Family. RTA has launched programmes to support family stability and community engagement, including:
- Organising mass weddings for Emirati employees
- Supporting home-based family businesses through dedicated retail spaces at transport stations
- Introducing a mobile nursery service for employees
- Producing digital content that promotes Emirati family values
- Issuing special nol cards dedicated to the Year of Family
Additionally, RTA continues to expand its community services, including women and children’s cabins on public transport, student nol card distribution, and specialised services for People of Determination.
A Vision for Sustainable Social Development
The “Family First” programme, launched during the World Government Summit 2026, represents a national strategic initiative to strengthen family cohesion and societal stability. Initially implemented in Dubai, the programme is set to expand across the UAE through partnerships with key entities such as Dubai Municipality, Majid Al Futtaim Group, and Union Coop.
By embedding family-focused principles into urban planning and public services, the initiative positions Dubai as a global model for cities prioritising quality of life and sustainable development.
