The administrative building of the Family Village in Al Warqa, Dubai, stands as a testament to a unique initiative. KT Photo: Neeraj Murali.
For the past nine years, a residential complex in Dubai has provided a nurturing environment for children without families. The Family Village in Al Warqa has supported over 390 children since its inception under the patronage of the Dubai Ruler in 2015. This safe haven prepares children without known parents for careers, marriages, and independent lives. The comprehensive support system ensures that each child who has resided at the Family Village is equipped with a promising future. The government funds living expenses until the age of 21, covering university fees, wedding costs, and housing.
The village consists of a residential complex with 16 villas, six of which are available for rent, with rental income directly benefiting the children. Khaleej Times recently visited the complex and discovered that these foster homes mirror typical Emirati households in Dubai. Each of the five-bedroom furnished villas is managed by a 'parent'—either a male or female who acts as the head of the 'family'. These surrogate parents and other staff members at the village provide essential moral support during key events such as festivals and graduations. They assume all parental duties, including cooking, guidance, advice, and tutoring, offering continuous support. This assistance helps alleviate the psychological stresses common among orphans.
A study room within one of the many villas at the Family Village in Al Warqa, Dubai. KT Photo: Neeraj Murali.
Dr. Abdulaziz Al Hamadi, Director of the Family Cohesion Department at the Community Development Authority (CDA) Dubai, explained to Khaleej Times that socially deprived children experience a family-style alternative where they lead a normal family life, hosting friends, celebrating occasions, and enjoying garden barbecues. The number of children being cared for at the village has decreased as more families have stepped forward to foster infants under two years old. Dr. Al Hamadi detailed that the complex includes an administrative building with staff offices, a clinic, a visitor reception hall, multipurpose rooms, a theater, and a dedicated team of social supervisors. Comprehensive medical and psychological care ensures round-the-clock support. Behavioral guidelines and legal regulations are in place to address any negative behaviors among the children.
Dr. Al Hamadi mentioned that monthly and weekly recreational and educational activities are organized, including Quran memorization programs. Children participate in outdoor activities based on their interests, with summer trips arranged both domestically and internationally, visiting hotels and recreational areas with their 'parents'. When the children reach adulthood and wish to marry, social workers help them register for community services provided by CDA to offer financial support, such as Dubai wedding services and other services that facilitate stable marriages. The Family Village, a pioneering project for orphans in the Middle East, houses abandoned children or those of unknown parentage.
