In a landmark social welfare expansion, the Emirate of Sharjah has unveiled a transformative support package for senior citizens under the direct directives of its Ruler. The comprehensive initiative eliminates all deductions for home nursing services while substantially increasing monthly financial assistance to AED 17,500 per individual.
The previously implemented nursing care program, which could cost up to AED 18,000 annually, had been deducting approximately AED 3,000 from seniors’ monthly support. The new mandate ensures that all nursing services will now be provided completely free of charge, with beneficiaries receiving their full financial allocation without any reductions.
Sulaiman Al Naqbi, Director of Sharjah’s Department of Social Services, elaborated on the multifaceted approach to elderly care. Beyond financial support, the program includes complete health and dental insurance coverage, complimentary physiotherapy sessions at departmental facilities, and specialized transportation services for medical appointments and recreational activities.
The initiative introduces several innovative components, including a mobile salon service that delivers grooming and personal care directly to homebound seniors. Community engagement is fostered through ‘Asala Clubs’ that provide educational, social, and recreational programming specifically designed for elderly residents.
Transportation solutions form another critical element, with the ‘Mishwar’ service facilitating leisure excursions and the ‘Ijaba’ service ensuring reliable transportation for government-related appointments. Additional mobility support, including airport transfers, can be arranged based on individual needs.
This holistic approach represents one of the most comprehensive elder care programs in the region, demonstrating Sharjah’s commitment to ensuring dignity, comfort, and social inclusion for its aging population. The integrated services address financial, medical, social, and personal care needs through a coordinated network of support mechanisms.