As part of its commitment to strengthening social welfare across the emirate, the Sharjah Social Services Department (SSSD) has announced the licensing of 32 new social centers. This move reflects Sharjah’s ongoing mission to elevate the quality of care and inclusive services for all community members, particularly people of determination.
The new centres will offer diverse social services, from early support to vocational training, aligned with global standards tailored to local needs.
Raising the Standard for Social Services in Sharjah
The Social Work Licensing and Development Department is leading the initiative to transform Sharjah’s social sector. According to Kholoud Al Nuaimi, Director of the department, the goal is to enhance the quality of life for vulnerable groups and encourage responsible investment in this critical field.
The newly approved centres are designed to meet the specific needs of various demographics, offering:
- Special education services
- Individual educational support for children with learning difficulties
- Vocational training tailored for people of determination
- Early intervention programmes
These services address growing demand within the community, ensuring beneficiaries receive relevant, timely, and high-quality support.
Community-Focused Expansion Across the Emirate
This latest wave of licensing is not limited to central Sharjah. The department is expanding strategically, with three centres planned in Khorfakkan and one in Al Dhaid. These regional efforts aim to close service gaps and ensure accessibility for residents throughout the emirate.
To maintain consistent service quality, the department has aligned its operational frameworks with internationally recognised standards—while ensuring full compliance with Sharjah’s laws and regulations.
Strategic Collaborations to Promote Inclusive Education
The success of these social centres relies heavily on strategic partnerships. The department is working with local authorities to embed services where they’re most needed—especially in education and healthcare.
Working closely with the Sharjah Private Education Authority, the department is rolling out inclusive education programmes directly within schools. Simultaneously, coordination with the Sharjah Health Authority is ensuring that only qualified healthcare professionals are licensed to work within these social centres, guaranteeing safe and regulated care for all.
Clear, Streamlined Licensing Process for Investors
The department has also simplified the licensing process to encourage investment in the sector. Interested applicants must submit an online application along with the required documents. After receiving preliminary approval, the applicant obtains commercial licensing through the Sharjah Economic Development Department.
A six-month window is provided to meet all operational requirements, including hiring qualified personnel and appointing a licensed centre manager. If additional time is needed, applicants are granted a one-time, final six-month extension to complete remaining criteria. The department will then conduct a field audit before issuing the final licence.
Accountability and Continuous Monitoring
Every licensed centre will be subject to annual inspections under a structured quality monitoring plan. The department also actively receives feedback and complaints through official channels, with every centre required to publicly display its contact information.
This commitment to transparency gives beneficiaries clear access to support and feedback.
Serving Sharjah’s Social Vision
Sharjah’s approach to community development is not simply about increasing the number of centres—it is about ensuring they deliver tangible, lasting impact. Through this initiative, the emirate is strengthening its position as a leader in inclusive care and community-focused development.
Al Nuaimi reaffirmed the department’s vision to make Sharjah a model for effective, high-quality social services that put the needs of every individual first.
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