In a pioneering move to prioritize family cohesion and social stability, the Family Development Foundation (FDF) in Abu Dhabi has detailed the framework for its "Barakatuna" initiative. This exclusive service empowers government employees who act as primary caregivers for their elderly parents to achieve a seamless work-life balance through the "Primary Caregiver Certificate."

Revolutionizing the Workplace for Caregivers

The initiative is currently implemented across 42 government entities in the Emirate, offering life-changing benefits. Eligible employees can opt for remote work arrangements or take unpaid leave in accordance with Abu Dhabi’s human resources legislation. This flexibility ensures that senior citizens receive the dignity and care they deserve without compromising their children's professional careers.

The 6 Essential Eligibility Criteria

To maintain the integrity of the service, the FDF has outlined six mandatory conditions:

1. Citizenship & Residency: Both the applicant and the senior citizen (aged 60+) must be UAE nationals with family books issued in Abu Dhabi and permanent residency in the Emirate.

2. Kinship: The applicant must be a first-degree relative (son or daughter) and the primary person responsible for care.

3. Medical Necessity: A medical report (not older than 3 months) from an Abu Dhabi health facility must prove the senior’s need for 24/7 assistance due to mobility issues or health deterioration.

4. Living Conditions: The caregiver must reside permanently with the parent, and there should be no full-time nurse employed at the home.

5. Employment Status: The applicant must be employed by one of the 42 approved Abu Dhabi government entities.

6. Administrative Compliance: Applicants must notify their employers of any status changes and bear responsibility for any pension fund adjustments during unpaid leave.

Seamless Digital Application Process

The application is entirely free and digitized through the "TAMM" platform. After logging in with UAE PASS and submitting the required documents, a specialized FDF team conducts a "Social Study" via a scheduled home visit. This field assessment is the final step before the issuance of the Primary Caregiver Certificate.

Participating Entities

The list of participating organizations is extensive, including major bodies such as the Department of Health, Abu Dhabi Housing Authority, Environment Agency Abu Dhabi, and prestigious educational institutions like Khalifa University and Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi.