Abu Dhabi: Meetha Al Ansi

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai organized a special event on the occasion of World Mental Health Day, featuring an awareness exhibition held in the main hall of the General Directorate headquarters. This was part of its commitment to providing a positive and supportive work environment that enhances employee well-being and quality of life. The event was attended by Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the Directorate, Dr. Alawi Al Sheikh Ali, Director General of Dubai Health Authority, Major General Obaid Muheir Bin Surour, Deputy Director General of Dubai Residency, assistant directors general, and several officials.

The event aims to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and its role in improving quality of life in the workplace through awareness activities and interactive workshops that support employees in maintaining their psychological and professional balance.

Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri emphasized that attention to mental health is a fundamental pillar in Dubai’s institutional work system, stating: “At Dubai Residency, we believe that investing in a person’s mental health is as important as investing in developing their skills and capabilities. Balanced positive value is the basis for increasing productivity and achieving job happiness, in line with the vision of our wise leadership that places humans at the heart of comprehensive development.”

Dr. Alawi Al Sheikh Ali stated that the Authority has a comprehensive and integrated strategy to support psychological well-being in Dubai, achieving the targets of Dubai Social Agenda 33, which aims for the emirate to be the preferred place to live globally.

Furthermore, Dr. Youssef Mohammed Al Serkal, Director General of Emirates Health Services, confirmed that mental health is a fundamental pillar in building the individual and enhancing their quality of life, and a central element in the comprehensive development system that the UAE is consolidating under the wise leadership that places humans at the forefront of its priorities and national policies and strategies. On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, which falls on October 10 each year, he said that attention to mental health goes beyond treatment to include prevention, education, and raising psychological well-being at all stages of life, ensuring the preparation of generations capable of active participation in the country’s leadership journey.

Salama Al Ameemi, Director General of the Family Care Authority, affirmed that mental health care is not a luxury but a fundamental necessity to enhance balance, stability, and well-being for every individual in society. She pointed out that the Authority continues its efforts to empower families and strengthen family unity, believing that society is incomplete without a safe environment that encourages openness and breaks the barrier of silence and fear associated with seeking support. She added that asking for help is not weakness but courage expressing awareness and responsibility.

Authorities in Abu Dhabi also pay increasing attention to mental health coinciding with World Mental Health Day. The Social Contributions Foundation “Ma’an” emphasized on this occasion the importance of giving mental health the priority and attention it deserves, as it is a fundamental element of quality of life. The foundation’s participation aims to raise community awareness and encourage individuals to adopt healthy habits that contribute to improving their psychological balance. It also provided practical advice, including positive communication with others, practicing deep breathing, regular physical activity, sufficient sleep, and reducing the use of electronic devices.

The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge indicated that mental health policies in schools aim to enhance students’ mental health within the framework of the integrated safety policy adopted by the department. It confirmed that students’ psychological safety is an essential part of their academic progress and personal success, stressing the important role of schools in caring for and supporting students’ mental health.

In the same context, the Abu Dhabi Public Health Center is implementing a comprehensive program aimed at promoting community mental health and reducing stigma associated with mental disorders and treatment through a set of integrated projects and initiatives. It is implemented in cooperation with strategic partners in health, education, community development, digital authorities, and others, enhancing integration among various concerned entities.