If family is the foundation of society, mothers are the architects
H.E. Salama Al Ameemi, Director General, Family Care Authority – Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, March 2026: Every family has a story. At the centre of many of these stories is a mother who guides, nurtures and supports her children through every stage of life. A mother’s influence shapes how children see the world, how they respond to challenges and how they build relationships with others.
As a mother myself, I understand that motherhood is a journey filled with responsibility, patience and deep commitment. It is also a role that quietly shapes the strength of families and the stability of society. If families are the foundation of society, then mothers are often the architects who shape that foundation with care, wisdom and resilience.
Motherhood is often spoken about in terms of sacrifice and devotion. While these qualities are deeply meaningful, the role of mothers today extends far beyond the traditional narrative. Mothers are educators, mentors, community builders and, increasingly, leaders shaping the future of our societies life while continuing to provide emotional strength within their homes. This balance requires resilience and support from the wider community.
In many ways, mothers are the first line of social protection within families. Long before challenges reach institutions or services, it is often mothers who notice the early signs that a child may be
struggling, that a family member may need support, or that a situation requires attention. Their awareness, instinct and care play an important role in protecting the wellbeing of families.
On International Mother’s Day, it is important not only to celebrate mothers, but also to reflect on how we can better support them in the vital role they play in strengthening families and communities. When mothers are supported with the right knowledge, resources and community networks, their ability to guide and safeguard their families becomes even stronger. This is why empowering mothers is not only a family matter. It is a social priority that strengthens the wellbeing of entire communities.
The United Arab Emirates has placed families at the centre of national development. Across the country, policies and initiatives aim to strengthen family life and ensure that parents have access to the support they need. It is crucial to raise awareness around family wellbeing. Families may face pressures related to parenting, financial stability or social challenges. Encouraging open conversations and providing early guidance can help families address these challenges before they grow into larger difficulties.
Supporting families also requires strong collaboration across institutions. Social care, healthcare, education and community organisations each play a role in ensuring that families receive the support they need. Through partnerships and coordinated efforts, we can create a system that protects families and create a more resilient society.
As someone who works closely with families across our community, I see every day the strength that mothers bring to their homes. Their patience, care and determination shape the lives of their children and help build the strong families that form the foundation of society. On this International Mother’s Day, we celebrate mothers everywhere and reaffirm our shared responsibility to support them, recognise their contributions and ensure that every family has the opportunity to thrive.
About Family Care Authority:
The Family Care Authority (FCA) in Abu Dhabi is dedicated to the governance and regulation of the social sector, with a strong emphasis on empowering families to achieve self-reliance. An affiliate of the Department of Community Development, the FCA is mandated by the Abu Dhabi government to provide comprehensive and proactive support to families across the Emirate. With a steadfast commitment to confidentiality, the FCA collaborates with strategic partners to offer integrated services, including counseling, inclusion and empowerment, Safe Shelter, and Awareness and Community Outreach, and Foster Family services. Through its family file management system, the FCA ensures seamless access to advanced services, fostering a nurturing environment for individuals and their families to thrive. In accordance with Abu Dhabi Executive Council’s Resolution No. 9 of 2024, the Family Care Authority’s mandate and roles have been expanded to integrate sheltering and humanitarian care services, and rehabilitation and empowerment programmes for victims of violence and human trafficking.
