In recognition of World Health Day, April 7, let us renew our commitment to the wellbeing of parents, caregivers, and children—laying the foundation for stronger families and a more resilient society.

Families are the cornerstone of a prosperous and compassionate society.

In the United Arab Emirates, the family unit is deeply valued and plays a central role in shaping future generations. It is within families that values are nurtured, character is formed, and emotional resilience is built. To support the nation’s continued progress and wellbeing, it is essential to invest in the health and stability of parents and caregivers—those who guide, protect, and raise the leaders of tomorrow.

This year’s World Health Day theme, “Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures,” is a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting families at every stage of life. It reinforces the UAE’s own strategic goals, including the National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031, which places family cohesion, mental health, and work-life balance at the heart of national development.

Understanding the Pressures Families Face

In today’s dynamic and diverse society, many families experience increasing demands—from managing professional responsibilities and raising children to adapting to modern lifestyle changes. This is true for both Emirati and expatriate families.

Recent insights from YouGov MENA (2023) indicate that a significant number of working parents in the UAE report feeling stressed or emotionally exhausted, particularly those balancing demanding roles in sectors such as healthcare, education, and business. At the same time, a 2022 report by UNICEF and the Supreme Council for Motherhood & Childhood revealed that one in four adolescents in the UAE is affected by a mental health or emotional challenge, many of which are connected to family stress, social pressures, or academic expectations.

It is important to acknowledge that the wellbeing of parents directly impacts the development and mental health of children, and vice versa. By empowering parents and caregivers, we are building healthier, more resilient families.

The Role of Employers in Supporting Families

The UAE has made significant strides in enhancing family wellbeing, including legislative updates around parental leave, childcare, and workplace flexibility. However, organizations across the public and private sectors also have a vital role to play.

Today, working parents represent a large and essential segment of the workforce. When parents are supported, they are better able to focus, innovate, and contribute meaningfully in both their personal and professional roles.

Despite this, some common challenges remain:

• Difficulty balancing work and family obligations;
• Limited awareness of available support services;
• Discomfort discussing topics like parental burnout or emotional stress;
• Challenges finding culturally appropriate childcare or family support solutions.

By embracing family wellbeing as a shared responsibility, organizations contribute not only to business sustainability but also to national wellbeing and social harmony.

How Workplace Options Supports Families in the UAE

Workplace Options (WPO) provides holistic, confidential, and culturally responsive support to help families navigate life’s challenges with confidence. Our services are designed to reflect the values of respect, inclusion, and family-centered care, and are available in multiple languages including Arabic and English.

1. Child and Family Wellbeing Support

This program offers expert guidance on:

• Supporting children experiencing anxiety or emotional distress
• Addressing behavioral and developmental needs
• Managing transitions such as moving, divorce, or bereavement
• Boosting academic confidence and social skills

Families are connected with experienced professionals who understand the cultural and emotional dynamics unique to the region.

2. New Parent Return to Work

Welcoming a child is a time of great joy, but also transition. This program helps parents prepare for and navigate their return to work with confidence. It includes:

• Coaching on time management, routine building, and self-care
• Guidance on managing feelings of guilt or pressure
• Support for managers in planning inclusive, family-friendly reintegration
• Assistance locating reliable childcare or domestic support services

This service respects family roles and cultural values, supporting both mothers and fathers in their journeys.

3. Emotional and Psychological Support

Mental and emotional wellbeing are essential for every family member. Our confidential counselling services include:

• Short-term and extended support with licensed professionals
• Access to culturally sensitive mindfulness tools through our Aware program
• Resources to help parents recognize and manage emotional exhaustion or anxiety

Support is offered discreetly and respectfully, in line with local cultural and religious sensitivities.

4. Revive: Managing Burnout and Restoring Balance

With many working parents balancing multiple responsibilities, the risk of burnout is real. The Revive program offers:

• Weekly support sessions with wellness coaches and mental health experts
• Tools to set healthy boundaries and restore personal balance
• Practical strategies to improve focus, energy, and emotional regulation

This program fosters long-term wellbeing and professional sustainability.

5. Practical Support for Everyday Needs

Whether seeking information about schooling, health resources, or dependent care, WPO provides:

• Guidance tailored to UAE systems and services
• Referrals to trusted, locally compliant providers
• Support for navigating administrative or logistical challenges

This service helps families save time, reduce stress, and make informed decisions.

6. Learning and Development Opportunities

Our learning resources help parents develop confidence and knowledge through:

• Interactive workshops on topics such as digital parenting, resilience, and emotional intelligence
• Financial wellbeing and family budgeting
• Understanding adolescent mental health
• Parenting across cultures and generations

These sessions encourage open dialogue and offer practical takeaways for daily life.

Empowered Families, Stronger Communities

Supporting parents and caregivers is not just a workplace initiative, it is a national imperative. When families thrive, so do our workplaces, schools, and communities. This is at the heart of the UAE’s vision for inclusive, sustainable development.

To learn more about how Workplace Options can support your organization and the families you serve, visit www.workplaceoptions.com or contact us directly at https://www.workplaceoptions.com/contact-us/.