UAE seniors are among the happiest in the world

Discounts, financial support, special care systems among the priority services offered to older people.

UAE leaders regularly meet face-to-face with seniors to check on their well-being and ensure the availability of anything that will improve their comfort, stability and other needs.

This was the case when Gouwayah, an Emirati widower, met President Sheikh Mohamed. The leader of the UAE personally checked his living conditions and needs and ordered that he be given full care and everything necessary.

Another 90-year-old citizen of Fujairah, Ali Al Hassan, was visited by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, who quickly arranged the necessary medical treatment for him and his wife. .

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, with Ali Al Hassan. Photo: Exterior

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, with Ali Al Hassan. Photo: Exterior

This is why Emirati seniors are among the happiest in the world. The United Arab Emirates is ranked 22nd in the world, according to the recently published World Happiness Report 2024.

Why is this so?

National policy for older people.

The UAE launched a national policy in 2018 for seniors to provide them with comprehensive care systems, discounts and protection programs.

The Ministry of Health and Prevention launched numerous initiatives aimed at improving healthcare services for older people, guaranteeing access to medical facilities and specialized treatments.

Additionally, Emirates Healthcare Foundation introduced mobile clinics in remote areas, equipped with the latest facilities and staffed by medical professionals, to provide essential healthcare services directly to the doorsteps of senior citizens.

Services at your doors

Health professionals visit the homes of elderly Emiratis to monitor their health conditions and provide them with necessary assistance. From dental care to medical laboratory services and physical therapy, these clinics have a wide range of healthcare needs.

In Sharjah, Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, member of the Supreme Council and ruler of Sharjah, has ensured that centers are available for elderly residents.

Immediate actions

In particular, during a call-in program in Sharjah, a woman named Um Khaled, who has health insurance as the mother of a Sharjah government employee, complained about the fees she paid.

Sheikh Sultan ordered to cancel his health insurance card and his treatment will now be covered by the senior citizen system at the University Hospital.

Likewise, he confirmed that older people receive comprehensive and free medical services at the University Hospital, from the transportation service to and from the hospital.

Priority financial support

In addition to healthcare, the UAE government provides financial assistance to senior citizens, easing their financial burdens and ensuring their financial security.

Senior Emiratis also receive preferential treatment in government entities, giving them priority in providing services and processing transactions.

In Abu Dhabi, many government entities provide direct services to seniors’ homes, such as the Abu Dhabi Police, which offers home-based services for people with disabilities and seniors who cannot visit the facility.

Free transportation and education.

The Abu Dhabi Department of Transport offers free taxi cards for seniors of all nationalities over the age of 60, allowing them to travel free for life on all public transport in Abu Dhabi.

Special positions have been allocated for them throughout the UAE in frequently visited locations and special facilities are available for seniors on public transport.

In Dubai, senior citizens and residents over 60 years of age receive discounts on public transport and there is free parking in areas designated for citizens with disabilities and people over 60 years of age.

Education is also available, with literacy centers spread throughout the country. In Abu Dhabi, several areas have literacy centers that offer classes in both the morning and afternoon.

News Source: Khaleej Times