Abu Dhabi: Under the directives of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, the Family Development Foundation (FDF) inaugurated the Barakat Al Dar Social Club at Al Shiwayb Centre, aiming to provide essential social services to senior citizens, residents, and those approaching retirement.
According to Emirates News Agency, the initiative is designed to create a safe and inclusive environment that encourages active engagement among senior citizens. The club focuses on ensuring the psychological, social, cultural, and physical well-being of its members. It offers integrated social services aimed at enhancing the quality of life, empowering individuals to access services through technology, and building the knowledge and skills of their families and caregivers.
Ali Salem Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of FDF, highlighted the unwavering support of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak in recognizing senior citizens as a vital pillar of society. He noted that Her Highness is committed to empowering them to continue contributing within an environment that upholds their dignity and meets their evolving needs. The Barakat Al Dar Club in Al Shiwayb serves as a pioneering model of sustainable community care, offering comprehensive programmes and services that address the diverse needs of senior citizens across health, cultural, and recreational domains.
Mariam Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Director General of FDF, stated that the inauguration reflects the noble values of the UAE's leadership and underscores the dedication of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak to the well-being of senior citizens. The Barakat Al Dar Club is part of FDF's broader strategy to offer comprehensive and sustainable services for seniors. As of May 14, 2025, the clubs have 3,536 registered members, with 85,841 individuals participating in activities across Abu Dhabi.
Al Rumaithi emphasized that the club offers a wide range of programmes tailored to the health, psychological, and social needs of seniors, promoting their integration into society and strengthening intergenerational communication. The selection of Al Shiwayb was based on a field study assessing local needs, leading to the implementation of a project that ensures balanced service provision across the emirate.
Wafa Mohammed Al Ali, Director of the Family Development Department at FDF, reaffirmed the foundation's commitment to strengthening its social role through strategic partnerships. These collaborations aim to create an inclusive and sustainable environment for senior citizens, providing programmes and services that enhance their quality of life and support active participation in society. Al Ali noted the previous inaugurations of Barakat Al Dar Social Clubs in Al Mirfa and Al Wathba in 2022, Al Sila' and Al Ain in 2024, with the most recent addition being the Ramah Club in 2025.