In a significant move aimed at enhancing the quality of life for its residents, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, has issued a directive to increase the minimum level of social assistance for families supported by the government. Effective from 1st September 2026, the new minimum support level will be set at 20,000 AED.
Impact on Families and Retirees
This decision will benefit approximately 6,652 families residing in Sharjah, with an estimated annual cost of 195 million AED. Abdullah Ibrahim Al Zaabi, Head of the Human Resources Department in Sharjah, announced the details during a recent broadcast on “Direct Line.”
Support for Retirees and Government Employees
The directive also extends to retirees of the Sharjah government, raising their minimum support level to 20,000 AED, positively impacting about 2,251 retirees at an annual cost of approximately 113 million AED. Furthermore, retirees receiving “supplementary grants” from outside the government will also see their support level raised to the same amount, benefiting around 5,300 citizens, with an annual budget allocation of 159 million AED.
Government Employees Included
In addition to support for families and retirees, Sharjah government employees will also receive the raised minimum support level, impacting around 17,776 employees at a significant annual cost surpassing 720 million AED. This comprehensive approach is aimed at ensuring a dignified standard of living for all these groups within the community.
This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to providing a decent living standard for all citizens and highlights the continuing efforts to expand welfare measures across the emirate.