In a visionary move towards enhancing the well-being of UAE citizens, Federal Decree Law No. (23) of 2024, issued by the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has brought forth transformative changes in social support and empowerment policies.
This decree, a continuation of the UAE’s commitment to building a sustainable, inclusive society, addresses social support by focusing on financial assistance, empowerment, and social responsibility, ensuring a dignified life for UAE citizens, especially the vulnerable and those with limited income.
Below, we unpack the core objectives, principles, and provisions of this landmark law, which emphasizes not just social welfare but also sustainable socio-economic empowerment.
Key Definitions: Social Support and Empowerment
This decree sets out essential definitions to clarify the terms and scope under its application.
The “social support” mentioned herein refers to the monthly financial aid extended to eligible individuals or families as stipulated by the decree’s provisions and implementing regulations.
This assistance is directed primarily to UAE nationals who qualify under specific criteria designed to ensure fair allocation.
The decree also introduces terms like “primary beneficiary” for the individual responsible for applying and managing social support for the family and “family” as a group of dependents under the primary beneficiary’s care. Additionally, “higher education” is defined to underscore support for beneficiaries pursuing educational advancement after general education.
Objectives of the Decree
Federal Decree Law No. (23) aims to achieve five foundational objectives.
First, it seeks to provide targeted financial support to low-income Emirati families, helping them meet essential living costs and improving their quality of life.
Second, it establishes a framework for protecting the most vulnerable members of society, creating a secure safety net.
The third objective emphasizes economic empowerment, aiming to foster beneficiaries’ financial independence.
In line with this, the fourth objective promotes a culture of shared responsibility, encouraging beneficiaries to contribute meaningfully to the workforce.
Lastly, the decree includes provisions for emergency aid in times of crisis, recognizing the need for adaptable support mechanisms in exceptional circumstances.
Components of Social Support
Social support under this law comprises basic allowances, supplementary allowances, and other financial support options, depending on eligibility.
These components allow for a structured and tiered approach, ensuring that each beneficiary receives an amount aligned with their individual and family needs.
This support is aimed at reinforcing economic stability within Emirati households, especially those with limited means, ultimately promoting long-term social cohesion.
Eligibility Criteria for Basic and Supplementary Allowances
Eligibility criteria play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the social support system.
The decree stipulates that beneficiaries must be UAE nationals, residing permanently within the UAE, and, if serving as primary beneficiaries, at least 21 years old.
Additionally, primary beneficiaries younger than 45 are required to be employed and insured, or retired, with total monthly household income falling below the threshold set by the law.
Finally, household assets should not exceed the cap determined by the Council of Ministers, further ensuring fair distribution of resources to those most in need.
Application Process and Verification
To access social support, applicants must submit a form to the Ministry of Community Development, accompanied by all necessary documents for verification.
The ministry is tasked with processing applications within 30 days, allowing for swift, timely support to beneficiaries. Importantly, applicants must sign a declaration confirming the authenticity of their provided information, with provisions in place for periodic reviews by the ministry to ensure compliance.
Social Support Disbursement and Updates
The Ministry opens a domestic account for each primary beneficiary, where monthly social support payments are deposited.
In case of a change in a beneficiary’s circumstances—such as employment, income, or health conditions—the primary beneficiary, or their representative, is obligated to notify the Ministry within 30 days to ensure accurate disbursement.
Additionally, the law outlines specific provisions in cases of a primary beneficiary’s death, ensuring continuous support for dependents by reviewing the family’s circumstances and adjusting payments accordingly.
Accountability and Penalties for Misrepresentation
A robust accountability framework is embedded within the decree, discouraging fraudulent activities through penalties for submitting false information.
If a beneficiary intentionally provides inaccurate data to obtain social support or increase its amount, they could face imprisonment or fines up to AED 50,000.
The decree authorizes the Ministry to recover any undue payments, safeguarding the fund’s integrity.
Reclaiming and Halting Social Support
The Ministry has the right to recover social support funds if no withdrawal has occurred over a consecutive three-month period without justification or if funds were allocated inappropriately.
Furthermore, the law specifies cases warranting the suspension of social support, such as the beneficiary’s incarceration or permanent placement in a healthcare facility.
This ensures that the resources are directed solely to active beneficiaries who genuinely need the support.
Appeal Process for Disputes
In recognition of potential grievances, the decree establishes a committee within the Ministry to review appeals concerning decisions made under this law.
Individuals have 30 days from receiving a decision to file an appeal, and the committee is expected to resolve such cases within another 30-day window.
Where justified, support is reinstated retroactively, capping at six months’ worth of aid.
Empowerment Programs and Economic Integration
The decree emphasizes the importance of holistic empowerment by mandating the Ministry to coordinate with government agencies to develop comprehensive empowerment programs for beneficiaries.
Tailored to individuals’ health, education, and employment potential, these programs include skills development and job training to facilitate their integration into the workforce, underscoring the UAE’s commitment to sustainable development.
A Step Forward for Social Welfare in the UAE
Federal Decree Law No. (23) of 2024 is a vital step towards advancing the UAE’s social welfare system, marking a shift from merely providing financial aid to empowering citizens through economic integration.
This decree reflects the UAE’s dedication to fostering an inclusive society where all Emiratis can participate in and benefit from the country’s socio-economic growth, ensuring a dignified life for every citizen while promoting independence and social responsibility.
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