As part of its participation in the AccessAbilities Expo 2026, held from October 19 to 21 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the Government of Dubai Legal Affairs Department hosted a panel discussion titled "The Family's Role in Supporting People of Determination: From Care to Empowerment," in the presence of His Excellency Dr. Lowai Mohamed Belhoul, Director General of the Government of Dubai Legal Affairs Department.
The session featured Her Excellency Mona Khalifa Hammad, Member of the Federal National Council, and Dr. Shaikha Saif Al Mansoori, Acting Director of the People of Determination Department at the Community Development Authority in Dubai. It was moderated by Legal Counselor Reda Mahmoud Al Sayed from the Government of Dubai Legal Affairs Department.
National Effort
Opening the session, the moderator emphasized that the family serves as the primary environment shaping a Person of Determination's personality, self-confidence, and ability to integrate into society. He highlighted that transitioning from care to empowerment marks a fundamental shift in perspective, moving away from viewing People of Determination as passive service recipients toward recognizing them as active individuals with talent and potential who contribute meaningfully to their families and society.
He noted that holding the session in conjunction with the Year of the Family adds a vital dimension, placing the family at the center of national efforts to empower People of Determination.
For her part, Her Excellency Mona Bin Hammad highlighted the vital role of local and federal legislation in enabling families to empower their children of determination. She noted that such frameworks grant clear rights and guarantees across key sectors, including education, healthcare, rehabilitation, employment, and accessibility, while offering services and support that ease family burdens and equip parents with the tools needed to support their children.
She further explained that the UAE's legislative framework has shifted the paradigm for People of Determination from a care-based model to a rights- and empowerment-driven framework, a transition that directly impacts the role and responsibilities of the family.
Her Excellency highlighted what the panel described as a fine line between protection and restriction, noting that a family's natural protective instinct can, if excessive, hinder a child's independence and personal growth.
She outlined practical ways to help families gradually transition from overprotection to empowerment, by creating space for trial and error, decision-making, accountability, and self-confidence. She emphasized that viewing mistakes as learning opportunities is essential to preparing People of Determination for as independent a life as possible.
Capacity Building
For her part, Dr. Shaikha Al Mansoori outlined the Community Development Authority in Dubai's efforts to support and empower People of Determination. She highlighted initiatives tailored for family caregivers, designed to equip them with the practical and psychological skills needed to adopt positive approaches that address their children's needs and foster their capabilities.
She emphasized that supporting caregivers is an integral part of supporting People of Determination themselves, as a well-prepared, resilient family is best positioned to lead the journey toward empowerment.
Dr. Shaikha Al Mansoori emphasized that sustainable empowerment for People of Determination relies on seamless collaboration among families, government entities, and community institutions. This integrated approach ensures a smooth transition from rehabilitation to active participation in professional and social life.
She further underscored the family's vital role in driving education, rehabilitation, and vocational skill development, ultimately preparing their children to integrate into the job market and build independence.
Dr. Al Mansoori added that the Authority remains committed to advancing vocational rehabilitation and empowerment ecosystems, raising awareness of the rights and capabilities of People of Determination, and fostering a culture of inclusion and equal opportunity. This ensures family support works hand-in-hand with institutional efforts to create an environment where individuals can actively participate in all aspects of life.
She explained that these initiatives directly support the goals of the "Dubai Social Agenda 33" by elevating quality of life and building a more cohesive, inclusive society, one where every individual is empowered to develop their skills and contribute to the nation's growth.