The Government of Dubai has officially reclassified the status of housewives, replacing the designation with the new title “Generations Shaper.” The initiative is intended to recognize and emphasize the contribution of women engaged in household management, El.kz reports.
Rationale for the Change
The decision was announced earlier this spring by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and coincided with Mother’s Day in the United Arab Emirates.
According to the Crown Prince, housewife is merely described the fact that a woman remains at home, whereas her actual role is to raise future generations, instill values, and contribute to societal development.
The new term will be reflected in Emirates ID records, medical records, school documentation, and other official government databases.
Reform as Part of a Broader Government Strategy
The change forms part of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, a government strategy aimed at strengthening the family institution and recognizing unpaid domestic and caregiving work as a significant contribution to national development.
The Government of Dubai expects that the revised designation will help reshape public perceptions of women who devote themselves to raising children. Motherhood and household management are now formally recognized as activities of public and social value.
Opportunities Associated with the New Status
Following the introduction of the “Generations Shaper” designation, government entities and financial institutions have begun adapting their support programmes. In particular, the investment company National Bonds has introduced dedicated savings products and family-oriented programmes for women holding the new status.
In addition, women designated as Generations Shapers will be eligible to participate in social initiatives, benefit from targeted support measures, and access family programmes delivered through Dubai government entities.
The changes will also be reflected in administrative procedures across schools, healthcare institutions, and other public services. The new designation will appear in citizens’ digital government profiles as well as on the Emirates ID.
Potential Implications for Banking Services
In the United Arab Emirates, information contained in the Emirates ID is taken into account by banks and other financial institutions during customer interactions. Consequently, the updated official designation may be considered as part of customer assessment processes when opening bank accounts, applying for banking products, and managing family financial arrangements.
The Government of Dubai has emphasized, however, that the primary objective of the reform is to provide public recognition of the role of women who dedicate themselves to their families and to raising children. The new term is intended to reinforce the understanding that such work constitutes a valuable contribution to the country’s long-term social and national development.
