Dubai RTA, Ministry Partner for Family First Programme

In a significant move to enhance family well-being, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and the Ministry of Family have signed a strategic partnership agreement to support the “Family First” programme. The initiative focuses on improving transport systems, public amenities, and urban infrastructure to create a more family-friendly environment.

The collaboration aligns with the National Family Growth Agenda 2031, which aims to strengthen Emirati families as a core pillar of social stability, development, and cultural values. By integrating social policies with urban planning, the partnership seeks to elevate quality of life across Dubai.

Focus on Family-Centric Urban Development

The agreement introduces a forward-thinking model that blends transport planning with family-oriented policies. It emphasizes designing public transport, roads, and urban spaces that cater to the needs of families, ensuring safer, more accessible, and inclusive mobility.

The Ministry of Family is adopting innovative, behaviour-driven design approaches to make daily travel more comfortable. These include visual cues, smart layouts, and user-friendly systems that improve ease of navigation and overall experience for families.

Leadership Vision and Strategic Impact

Minister of Family Sana bint Mohammed Suhail highlighted that the partnership represents a key expansion of the “Family First” programme into the transport sector—one of the most impactful areas in daily life.

She emphasized that embedding family priorities into urban systems reflects the UAE’s commitment to sustainable development and balanced societies. According to her, cities designed around family needs are better positioned for long-term growth and stability.

Transport as a Driver of Social Well-being

RTA Director General Mattar Al Tayer stated that the collaboration reinforces Dubai’s vision of people-first development. He noted that transport plays a vital role in supporting family stability, reducing daily stress, and improving connectivity.

The partnership will introduce new planning standards that integrate family-focused concepts into transport hubs and public facilities, strengthening Dubai’s global reputation as a leader in human-centric urban planning.

Inclusive Initiatives and Community Support

RTA continues to roll out initiatives that directly benefit families and vulnerable groups, including:

• Free parking for senior Emiratis

• Discounted fares for students and senior citizens

• Full exemptions for People of Determination on tolls, transport fares, and vehicle services

• 50% reduction in taxi fares and licensing fees for People of Determination

These measures aim to ensure equal opportunities and ease the daily burden on families.

‘Year of Family’ Special Initiatives

As part of the Year of Family, RTA has launched several community-driven initiatives, such as:

• Organising mass weddings for employees

• Supporting home-based family businesses

• Providing retail spaces at transport stations for family products

• Introducing a mobile nursery for employees’ children

• Launching special nol cards and cultural awareness campaigns

Additionally, RTA has expanded services like dedicated metro cabins for women and children, student nol cards, and support services for families in need.

Future Expansion Plans

The “Family First” programme, launched during the World Government Summit 2026, will initially be implemented in Dubai before expanding across the UAE. The Ministry has already partnered with key entities like Dubai Municipality, Majid Al Futtaim Group, and Union Coop to broaden its impact.

This partnership marks a major step toward building a more inclusive, family-oriented urban ecosystem—positioning Dubai as a global benchmark for quality of life and sustainable development.