The Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) has launched Dama Al-Aman, an integrated child protection system campaign that brings together 21 partners spanning education, health, social care, law enforcement and justice under a single coordinated framework.
The system is grounded in the Dama Al-Aman Child Protection Policy, which was introduced in 2023 and endorsed by the Abu Dhabi Executive Council. It draws its legal foundation from Wadeema’s Law and sets out clear responsibilities and coordination mechanisms across sectors.
Running alongside the system launch is a public awareness campaign titled “Protecting Children Takes All of Us,” aimed at equipping parents, educators and community members with practical knowledge: how to recognise signs of abuse or neglect, where to report concerns, and what support is available. ECA says the campaign will reach communities through schools, Majlises, and digital and traditional media over the coming months.
More than 400 child protection specialists have been trained as part of the initiative, with additional training delivered to practitioners across health, education and social services.
“Every child deserves to feel safe, to be heard, and to know there is someone they can turn to. Protecting children starts with the little things: noticing when something feels wrong, listening without judgment, and having the courage to speak up when a child may need help. Through Dama Al-Aman, we want every parent, teacher and community member to know that they have a role to play, and that they are not alone in playing it. You don’t have to be a specialist to make a difference. Sometimes, simply noticing, listening and taking action can change the course of a child’s life. Because protecting children is not the responsibility of one person or one entity. It takes all of us, working together, to make sure every child in Abu Dhabi grows up safe, supported and able to thrive,” Dr. Hessa Al Kaabi, Executive Director, Special Projects & Partnerships at ECA said in a statement.
Abu Dhabi Police, the Family Care Authority, the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge, and the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre are among the partners involved. Major General Mohammed Suhail Al Rashdi of Abu Dhabi Police said the campaign reflects the force’s commitment to raising awareness of abuse risks and helping communities identify when children may need protection.
The Family Care Authority contributes through its Child Centre, which consolidates social, psychological and medical support under one roof for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Dr. Durra Alblooshi of the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre noted that healthcare professionals often spot signs of harm during routine clinical visits, and that the system supports dedicated Child Protection Units within healthcare facilities.
The Dama Al-Aman website at www.damaalaman.ae provides access to guides, reporting information and resources for both practitioners and the public. Concerns can be reported to the Ministry of Interior’s Child Protection Hotline on 116111, the Family Care Authority’s hotline on 800444, or Abu Dhabi Police on 999 in an emergency. Both hotlines operate around the clock.
