UAE Strengthens Support for Low-Income Families Amidst Rising Costs
In response to the increasing cost of living, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) government has taken significant measures to provide financial support to families earning below Dhs25,000 a month. Shamma Al Mazrui, the Minister of Community Development, announced that these allowances are part of a comprehensive restructuring of the Social Support Programme initiated in 2022. The reform aims to address the evolving socio-economic landscape of the nation, ensuring that vulnerable families can maintain a decent standard of living.
The Social Support Programme is designed to benefit all Emirati families whose monthly incomes are insufficient for them to lead dignified lives. This initiative is particularly significant in light of recent inflationary pressures and rising costs of essential goods and services. By extending support to those who require it most, the UAE government is reinforcing its commitment to social welfare and equitable economic development.
Pre-2008 retirees have also been included in this initiative, receiving additional support to aid in their transition to retirement. For example, the allowance for family breadwinners aged over 60 has notably increased from Dhs5,000 to Dhs13,000, recognizing the financial challenges that this demographic may face. This increase aims not only to alleviate financial strains but also to honor the years of service and contributions made by these retirees to society.
In a notable expansion of the programme, a new category labeled the “Working/Retired Category” has been introduced. This new category provides financial support to low-income working citizens as well as retirees. The threshold for a decent living is set at Dhs5,000, with increments of Dhs2,000 for every decade of work experience, culminating in a maximum allowance of Dhs13,000 for the family breadwinner. Such measures reflect an understanding that consistent employment over the years can lead to heightened financial burdens, particularly as costs rise in the economy.
Moreover, the programme incorporates various allowances aimed at supporting families with children. An Emirati spouse can receive an allowance of Dhs3,500, while each child in the household is granted Dhs2,400 for the first child, Dhs1,600 for the second and third children, and Dhs800 for any subsequent children. Notably, families with children of determination receive a remarkable allowance of Dhs5,000, which is not included in the count of children for financial considerations. This inclusive approach underscores the UAE’s dedication to fostering a supportive environment for families facing unique challenges.
The allowances also address the rising prices of essential goods, particularly food and fuel, which have significantly impacted household budgets. Under the newly implemented inflation allowances, families with a monthly income of less than Dhs25,000 will benefit from structured support. For instance, a food allowance of Dhs500 will be granted to the primary beneficiary and an equivalent amount to the Emirati spouse. Additionally, each child under the age of 21 will receive Dhs250, up to a maximum of four children.
The programme further offers a fuel allowance that is tiered based on the prevailing price of 95-octane fuel. Families will receive Dhs300 if the fuel price is between Dhs2.1 to Dhs2.85 per litre, Dhs600 if the price escalates to between Dhs2.86 and Dhs3.60 per litre, and Dhs900 if it exceeds Dhs3.61 per litre. This approach ensures that families are adequately supported during times of fluctuating fuel prices, which can significantly strain monthly budgets.
In terms of utilities, the programme provides Dhs400 for electricity and water expenses or an equivalent amount that matches monthly consumption, whichever is lower. This initiative represents a thoughtful recognition of the essential nature of these services and their importance to maintaining quality of life within Emirati households.
As the UAE navigates economic shifts and the impact of external factors such as global inflation, the government’s proactive stance on social support demonstrates its commitment to ensuring that all citizens can access the resources necessary for a dignified existence. This multifaceted approach not only addresses current challenges but also builds a framework for future stability and resilience amongst Emirati families.
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