The Family Development Foundation announced the launch of its new charter during a special event in Abu Dhabi, according to the Emirates News Agency. The initiative seeks to encourage individuals and families to adopt the principles of compassion, empowerment and community support that have defined the work of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. Organizers described the charter as a framework for guiding future programs and community activities across the emirate.
The charter builds on the foundation’s ongoing efforts to strengthen family structures and support vulnerable groups, the organisation said in its statement. It emphasizes education, health and social cohesion as key pillars, aligning with national priorities for sustainable development. Participants at the launch event reviewed how the document can be integrated into existing outreach campaigns targeting different age groups.
Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, widely known as the Mother of the Nation, chairs the supreme board of the foundation and has driven transformative change in women’s roles since the early years of the UAE. A dedicated website tracking her achievements reports that enrollment in general education for females surged from 27,021 students in 1975 to 890,341 in 2024. Women now account for 52.6 percent of university graduates in the country, with a strong focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields.
Recent activities by the foundation have included reviews of programs for senior citizens and the launch of initiatives like “Hikma wa Sand” to foster intergenerational dialogue, Gulf News reported on January 29, 2026. These efforts coincide with the national Year of the Family, which has seen heightened focus on parental guidance and family stability. The foundation’s five-year strategy prioritizes well-being improvements for older residents while enhancing overall institutional capabilities.
In addition to domestic programs, the foundation’s work under Sheikha Fatima has extended to international humanitarian projects, including support for refugee women and children through dedicated funds. Data from related reports indicate that more than 60 institutions now operate under her oversight to advance family and women’s issues both locally and abroad. The new charter is expected to serve as a guiding document for aligning community efforts with these long-standing objectives.
The launch comes as the UAE continues to advance its gender equality agenda, with female participation in the workforce and education reaching record levels according to official assessments. Foundation officials highlighted the charter’s role in inspiring younger generations to carry forward the legacy of service and empowerment. Community leaders expressed support for the initiative during the announcement, noting its potential to reinforce social bonds in a rapidly evolving society.
