Manama: The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in the Kingdom of Bahrain organised a cultural event in celebration of International Day of Families, which coincides with the UAE's announcement of 2026 as the "Year of Family". The event was attended by Dr. Hala bint Mohamed Jaber Al Ansari, Advisor to His Majesty the King for Cultural and Scientific Affairs, and Fahad Mohammed bin Kardous Al Ameri, Ambassador of the UAE to Bahrain.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Ambassador Al Ameri stated that the event reflects the longstanding ties between the UAE and the Kingdom, including close family bonds, shared history and destiny, and deep-rooted relations. He noted that both countries place strong emphasis on strengthening family as the basic building block of society and in promoting social cohesion and unity.
He added that marking International Day of Families with Bahrain reflects the close ties between the two peoples and reaffirms the importance of family in preserving identity and shared values, as well as its central role in raising future generations and building a society based on tolerance and solidarity. Ambassador Al Ameri said the UAE's designation of 2026 as the "Year of Family" reflects the leadership's commitment to strengthening family, supporting its stability, and enabling it to fulfil its role, in line with national objectives to support Emirati family growth and cohesion.
He said family is the foundation of a strong and prosperous society, the basis of development and stability, and the environment in which values are formed, where identity and belonging are strengthened, and where responsibility towards the nation is rooted. Ambassador Al Ameri added that family is the first environment in which values of cooperation and compassion are instilled, and these values remain a key feature of Emirati society, passed down through generations. He emphasised that the UAE believes genuine development begins with family, and that investing in the future starts with strengthening family stability.
He also cited the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who said that family is the basis of any strong society, as well as His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, who said that the Emirati family is the first line of defence in preserving our culture, values and identity. Ambassador Al Ameri affirmed that Emirati families remain a key priority for the UAE and its leadership, and that Emiratis inside and outside the country are an extension of the nation's progress and ambassadors of its values. He wished for the protection of families in both the UAE and Bahrain, and for continued stability and harmony.
The event also featured a panel discussion with Dr. Dunya Ahmed Abdullah, Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Sciences at the University of Bahrain, and Abeer Mohammed Daham, Director of the Family and Child Development Centres at the Ministry of Social Development. It covered topics including family as the strongest social institution, the role of family despite changing lifestyles, the link between a supportive family environment and building confident and stable personalities, and how to adapt to modern changes while preserving family values.
Speakers emphasised that family remains the strongest social institution and the first line of support for individuals, helping restore psychological balance and strengthen national belonging. They also highlighted the importance of the role of educational, media and civil society institutions in reinforcing family values and protecting society from negative behavioural and intellectual influences.
The discussion also included audience contributions addressing contemporary social and intellectual challenges facing families, and means to strengthen family cohesion amid rapid change. It also reviewed initiatives launched by the UAE and the Kingdom to support and empower families, reflecting both countries' vision of building cohesive and stable societies. Participants emphasised that family is central to human development and reinforcing social responsibility, and highlighted the importance of cooperation between families and educational, media and cultural institutions.
Ambassador Al Ameri presented a commemorative gift to Dr. Al Ansari, and also presented certificates of appreciation and commemorative gifts to the speakers, commending their valuable insights which enriched the event and highlighted the importance of cultural and awareness efforts in strengthening the role and values of family.