‘Human development will drive change’

New licensing law expected to take care of Dubai’s residents.

Dubai — Following the recent issuing of a decree which mandates the Community Development Authority (CDA) to be the focal point of all licensing in the social sector, its Director-General Khaled Mohammed Al Kamda says Dubai’s more “vulnerable” residents will be well taken care of.

“Social services, whether provided by the government, private, or third sector, are an important element through which the protection, care, empowerment, and inclusion of people in the community can be achieved. To ensure the safety and the high quality of these services, licensing plays an important role,” he told Khaleej Times on Tuesday.

The introduction of Law No (8) of 2015, will enable the CDA to encompass the practice of professionals as well as the facilities providing social services.

“Licensing would contribute to better understanding of the needs of the community as well as the resources available to meet these needs and the continuous development of these resources,” he said.

Earlier this week, His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, issued the law on Dubai’s CDA with the aim to organise and reinforce community development here, and empower vulnerable groups including senior citizens and people with special needs.

Noting “diversity” as one of the characteristics that distinguishes Dubai, Al Kamda said Shaikh Mohammed emphasises the importance of achieving a strong and cohesive society based on the protection of individuals who are more vulnerable.

“Building a safe, happy, and cohesive society is part of Shaikh Mohammed’s vision. He aims to provide opportunities to all to succeed, belong and participate in the community’s development.”

Al Kamda said the addition of this new law builds on what has been achieved through the laws 12 and 26 of 2008, which signaled the establishment of CDA. “It is very evident that social development is at the forefront of Dubai’s interests, and human development is taking precedence over other forms of development, because it is seen as a sure and sustainable drive for the change.”

This new law brings new advantages for Dubai in terms of identifying important concepts such as social services and vulnerable individuals.

With volunteering, corporate social responsibility, and not-for-profit associations and foundations noted as some of the key drivers in strengthening the city’s community, Al Kamda said support from all will continue to promote this strong community vibe.

“Since its establishment in 2008, CDA has been working on serving all vulnerable groups in parallel, and it has gained great support from the community as a whole. This needs to continue,” he said.

 CDA initiatives:

> Senior citizens: Establishment of ‘Thukhr’ Card and ‘Thukhr’ Club to promote seniors’ inclusion and participation in the community.

> Children: Child Protection Centre that raises awareness about child abuse and neglect, trains nursery and school personnel on how to react towards child abuse.

> People with disabilities: Rehabilitation programs based on the social model of intervention for children under 6. Training of government and non-government entities on dealing with people with disabilities. Imple-mentation of ‘My Community’.

> Prisoners, juveniles and recovered addicts: Rehabilitative and social care services to limit recidivism and promote inclusion and empowerment.

 > Emirati families with low income: Recur-ring assistance and empowerment servicesabu 

kelly@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE