The UAE has officially declared 2026 the Year of the Family.
The UAE has officially designated 2026 as the Year of the Family, with a series of new policies, initiatives and programmes aimed at strengthening family life across the country.
Throughout the year, residents can expect a range of measures designed to support families, improve work-life balance and enhance community wellbeing.
Here are some of the key initiatives expected to make family life in the UAE even better, including one that will provide added support for caregivers in Dubai.
1. Free Fazaa discounts
Traditionally reserved for government and semi-government employees, the Fazaa discount programme has been extended to all families with at least one child until the end of 2026.
For those unfamiliar with Fazaa, the programme offers discounts on a wide range of attractions, restaurants, hotels and other leisure and lifestyle experiences across the UAE.
Eligible families can apply for the temporary membership by registering with the name, mobile number and email address linked to their Emirates ID. Once the application is submitted, membership is typically issued within 72 working hours.
2. More affordable public transport
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Family, has launched the Family First programme to make getting around the emirate easier and more affordable for families.
Under the initiative, students and senior Emiratis will benefit from discounted public transport fares, senior citizens will be exempt from parking fees, and special nol cards will be introduced to mark the UAE’s Year of the Family.
People of determination will also benefit from a range of transport concessions, including exemptions from Salik toll charges, parking fees, public transport fares, vehicle registration and renewal fees. They will also receive 50 per cent discounts on taxi fares and driving licence fees.
As part of the initiative, the RTA has designated 243 cabins for women and children on the Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram, while distributing 31,000 nol cards to students.
3. Social media ban for children under 15
The UAE has introduced a new law setting a minimum age for social media use, marking a significant step towards enhancing online safety for children.
Under a new Cabinet resolution, children under the age of 15 will no longer be permitted to use social media platforms.
Social media companies will have 12 months to gradually implement the new requirements in coordination with the relevant authorities.
The law covers all social media platforms that allow users to create accounts or personal profiles, interact with others, publish or share content, or use algorithms to display, rank or recommend posts, whether the service is free or paid.
This means popular platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube will all fall under the new regulations.
Under the law, children under the age of 15 will not be allowed to create or use personal social media accounts or access the platforms’ full features.
4. Four-day working week for Dubai public sector employees
Dubai has introduced a four-day work week and reduced summer working hours for public sector employees as part of efforts to promote a better work-life balance.
The Dubai Government Human Resources Department launched the revised summer schedule on June 29 under the ‘Our Flexible Summer’ initiative, which will run until September 10.
Now in its third consecutive year, the programme introduces two flexible working models, allowing government entities to balance operational needs with employee wellbeing while maintaining service standards.
Under the initiative, employees can either work a four-day week or follow a five-day schedule with reduced working hours.
For the first time, the programme has been rolled out across all Dubai government entities.
5. Region’s first RV route
Dubai has unveiled the region’s first integrated recreational vehicle (RV) route, aimed at promoting nature-based tourism and encouraging more outdoor family experiences.
The Dubai Municipality initiative will create a connected network of dedicated RV stations, serviced parks and road-trip routes designed to make caravan travel more accessible.
The route will showcase Dubai’s diverse natural landscapes, including mountains, beaches and deserts, offering families a variety of outdoor experiences.
Designed with the UAE’s Year of the Family in mind, the initiative aims to encourage families to explore the emirate together through connected road trips and shared adventures.
6. Paid marriage leave for Dubai couples
Announced in January 2025, the initiative aims to strengthen family stability, wellbeing and growth across Dubai.
Launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, alongside Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme offers financial, social and educational support to families while promoting a healthier work-life balance.
The programme includes measures such as wedding support packages, housing assistance and flexible work policies to support Emirati families.
As part of the first phase, newly married Dubai government employees are entitled to 10 days of paid marriage leave, while working mothers will have the option to work remotely on Fridays during the first year after returning from maternity leave
