Dubai: Sunday, March 22, 2026
In a landmark move to honor the invaluable contribution of mothers, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE, has directed that the official designation “Housewife” be replaced with “Generation Shaper” in all government records.
The directive, issued to the Community Development Authority (CDA) on the occasion of Mother’s Day, aims to officially recognize the pivotal role mothers play in building families and mentoring the future leaders of society. By transitioning from a functional label like housewife to an empowered title like Generation Shaper, the UAE continues to lead in progressive social reforms that acknowledge the profound impact of women within the domestic and social sphere.
In a touching tribute shared across official channels, Sheikh Hamdan emphasized that a mother is a child’s first school. He noted that the sense of responsibility, patriotism, and the core values required to build a strong nation are first nurtured in the hearts of children by their mothers. He highlighted that the silent, selfless service provided by mothers is the true bedrock upon which every nation stands.
To all mothers, thank you. You are the foundation of all goodness. Wishing everyone a very Happy Mother’s Day, Sheikh Hamdan stated in his message.
The move has been hailed by residents and experts as a significant psychological and social boost for women, including the vast expatriate community in the UAE. It reflects a shift in how society views the dedication required to raise a generation, moving away from traditional labels toward a more respectful and accurate description of the labor involved in childcare and home management.
The new designation is expected to be updated across official UAE documentation and identity records shortly. Authorities are currently working on the technical integration to ensure the title “Generation Shaper” is available for selection in residency and labor portals.
