By Staff Reporter
Dubai has opened its first shelter exclusively for male children, marking a major step in child protection services across the emirate.
Launched by the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children, the new facility is the first of its kind in the city and is designed to offer a secure, private environment for boys — both Emiratis and residents — who have experienced violence, neglect, or exploitation. It fills a long-standing gap in services for boys over the age of 12, who were previously placed in youth hostels.
With space for up to 20 boys, the shelter is managed by a trained all-male team, including psychologists, social workers, and residential supervisors, ensuring cultural sensitivity and specialized care. Each child undergoes a thorough assessment to determine the type of harm and receives a tailored protection and rehabilitation plan.
Referrals come from various entities, including schools, hospitals, and law enforcement, and in urgent cases, children can be admitted within 24 hours. Facilities include bedrooms, study rooms, a gym, prayer areas, and dedicated spaces for counseling and activities.
The shelter also prepares boys for adulthood through vocational training and life skills support, extending care beyond the age of 18.
The opening was officiated by Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim and attended by senior officials and stakeholders. It brings the total number of shelters operated by the Foundation to four, reinforcing Dubai’s commitment to child welfare under Social Agenda 33 and the Year of Community 2025 initiative.
Shaikha Saeed Al Mansouri, Acting Director General of the Foundation, highlighted the growing need for adolescent-focused care, noting that emotional and verbal abuse remain the most reported cases.
News Source: Khaleej Times
