Our Story | Human Rights in the UAE

To fully comprehend the UAE’s human rights agenda, it is essential to understand the principles of compassion, inclusivity and drive for progress that underpinned the formation of the nation as defined by it's founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the first president of the UAE.

The UAE's founding father firmly believed that  “the real spirit behind progress is the human spirit”, which led to the beginning of a journey of unprecedented education, development and prosperity for the people of the UAE.

The UAE’s leadership continued to uphold this belief and converged around the goals of development, prosperity and protection of human dignity as critical pillars for growth. Coupled with values of tolerance, respect for human rights, and good governance, the UAE established itself as a secure, stable and thriving nation in the region.

The UAE is now home to over 200 different nationalities, all of whom contribute to making it a place of choice to live, work and invest. 

Placing the well being of every individual at the center of all strategies, development policies and initiatives has guided this young and forward looking nation since its formation. This human centric approach will continue to be the guiding principle under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.

Today human rights in the UAE are guaranteed through equal rights before the law, non-discrimination and respect for the other; and will remain at the centre of UAE society where the individual is cared for and his basic needs are met. 

The UAE Constitution defines a set of social and economic rights that are the basis of a coherent and evolving welfare system. In the UAE, education and housing are constitutional rights; health coverage is provided for all; and a social welfare system supports the most vulnerable citizens and residents.  Legislation protects against discrimination and guarantees the right to life, security, freedom of belief and religious practice.  The constitution also pays special attention to the rights of children, women, senior citizens, persons with disabilities (people of determination) and other vulnerable groups.