The UAE is quickly establishing itself as a leader in innovative and inclusive social care systems, as noted by Shargil Ahmed, Partner and Chief Strategy Officer at Deloitte Middle East.
Leading Deloitte’s social care and public policy initiatives, Ahmed highlighted the need for systems that are inclusive, efficient, and responsive, especially for vulnerable populations. “We collaborate across sectors to find solutions to social challenges. Our aim is to enhance social care systems so services effectively meet the needs of the most dependent,” he stated.
As the exclusive knowledge partner at the recent Social Care Forum, Deloitte partnered with the Department of Community Development (DCD) to encourage dialogue on critical social issues. “Our partnership with DCD highlights our commitment to evidence-based policy making and our dedication to the communities we serve,” Ahmed mentioned.
The UAE stands out in social development for its focus on innovation and inclusivity. Ahmed noted the country’s investment in family support systems and its adoption of public-private partnerships and digital technologies. “This enables the UAE to offer tailored solutions to vulnerable groups, setting a new regional standard,” he remarked.
Economic empowerment is a major area of change, being redefined to match changing family dynamics. Ahmed pointed out initiatives like flexible work options, more support for women joining the workforce, active aging programs, and targeted skills development in underserved areas.
Shargil Ahmed, Partner and Chief Strategy Officer at Deloitte Middle East
Youth engagement is also crucial in the UAE’s evolving social care environment. Ahmed advocated for co-design—a strategy where young people are equal partners in forming support systems. “Engaging youth, such as through the UAE Youth Council, ensures government initiatives are in sync with community needs. Co-design promotes trust and ownership,” he said.
For effective digital support for youth, Ahmed emphasized the importance of engagement, accessibility, and personalization. “Mobile-friendly platforms and data-driven insights are vital for creating relevant and actionable support systems,” he added.
Lastly, Ahmed highlighted the vital role of data and insights in guiding public discussions on social care. “Basing policy on data ensures interventions are effective and reliable. It allows stakeholders to spot patterns, forecast outcomes, and allocate resources more effectively,” he said. “Transparency and accountability are key to building trust in the social care ecosystem.”
As the region advances, Deloitte’s strategic role points to a future where social care is not only more responsive but also deeply embedded in collaboration, innovation, and community involvement.
