Abu Dhabi – WAM

The “Human Rights Union” association affirmed that the UAE has solidified its global leadership position in elderly care through an integrated legislative system and social and health initiatives, making appreciation and loyalty to this group a fundamental pillar of the state’s policies within the framework of sustainable development.

The association explained, on the occasion of the “International Day of Older Persons,” held this year under the theme “Leadership from the Elderly for Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Well-being, and Rights,” which emphasizes the leadership role of the elderly as agents of change rather than mere recipients of care, that this theme aligns with the UAE approach that places senior citizens at the heart of the development process, recognizing their knowledge value and life experience as a key resource to strengthen community resilience.

It pointed out that the wise leadership of the country is keen to hold regular meetings with senior citizens, appreciating their contributions and ensuring the availability of comfort, stability, and well-being for them, within the values of the authentic Emirati society.

The association added that the UAE has established a comprehensive legislative system to protect the rights of senior citizens, foremost among them Federal Law No. (9) of 2019 concerning the rights of senior citizens and Cabinet Resolution No. (9) of 2021 with its executive regulations, in addition to supporting laws such as the Pensions and Social Security Law (1999) and the Housing Assistance Provision Resolution (2021).

It clarified that these legislations guarantee fundamental rights such as independence, privacy, protection from violence and abuse, the right to housing, education, work, and comprehensive healthcare, along with facilitation in completing government transactions and community services.

It highlighted that the National Policy for Senior Citizens, launched in 2018, represented a qualitative shift adopting a holistic approach based on seven main pillars including healthcare, community communication, active life, energy investment, civic participation, infrastructure and transportation, and financial stability, security, and safety.

It noted that this policy has been translated into more than 26 innovative initiatives, such as the Active Life Program, home care services, and mobile clinics in remote areas, enhancing the quality of life of senior citizens and consolidating their participation in various life fields.

The association indicated that 2025 witnessed the launch of qualitative initiatives, most notably the “Baraktna” initiative in Abu Dhabi to enhance the quality of life for senior citizens and support their families, the “Protect Our Elders with Love” guide to instill values of loyalty and appreciation, and the “Safe Home for Senior Citizens” guide to provide a safe environment for this important segment of society, in addition to dialogue forums that provided an interactive platform for senior citizens to express their aspirations and participate in policy formulation.

It pointed to the state’s initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the “We Are Your Family” initiative, which embodied the highest forms of social solidarity.

It mentioned that the UAE’s efforts align with international principles, foremost among them the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, noting that the 2024 World Happiness Report ranked senior citizens in the country among the happiest groups globally, reflecting the success of the UAE approach that views aging as a new phase of giving and experience.

The association confirmed that the declaration of 2025 as the “Year of Community” under the slogan “Hand in Hand” represents an added value to consolidate the values of solidarity between generations and embodies the state’s commitment to caring for senior citizens as a national treasure, a source of inspiration for future generations, and a key component in sustaining the path of comprehensive development and renaissance.