To mark Father’s Day, the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) has released new research highlighting the experiences, perspectives and aspirations of Emirati and Expatriate fathers in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra Region. Conducted in partnership with leading academic institutions, the studies offer valuable insights into the evolving role of fathers in early childhood development and provide an evidence base to inform inclusive, father-friendly initiatives.
The multi-year studies were delivered through the ECA Research Grants Program, where a total of approximately AED 6 million awarded in this cycle to New York University Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates University, Emirates College for Advanced Education, University of Sharjah and Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government. They represent a shared commitment to strengthening the early childhood research ecosystem in the UAE, improving understanding of children’s needs, and promoting collaborative knowledge-sharing.
Together, the seven studies engaged more than 1,700 participants, including Emirati and Expatriate fathers, mothers, children, educators, and workplace leaders, through surveys, interviews, focus groups and workshops. The research explored father–child interactions across a range of themes, including emotional connection, cognitive and social development, literacy, health, and social inclusion.
Key Research Findings:
- 76% of fathers who read regularly with their children reported stronger emotional bonds and improved communication.
- Many fathers expressed a desire for more structured parenting guidance, particularly in the early years and when raising Children of Determination.
- Barriers to active fatherhood include limited workplace flexibility and societal limitations around caregiving.
- Everyday activities such as storytelling, playing, and shared routines play a critical role in strengthening the father–child relationship.
- Employers recognize the value of paternal involvement but cite a need for clearer policies and support structures.
The findings also highlight opportunities to enhance family wellbeing, build supportive environments, and inform future early childhood initiatives and services. Recommendations emerging from the research include extending paid paternity leave, introducing workplace flexibility, and designing parenting programs tailored to the needs of fathers. The research also encourages the development of inclusive support systems for fathers of Children of Determination, greater shared reading opportunities through schools and libraries with Arabic-language materials and the promotion of positive representations of fatherhood across media and society.
His Excellency Dr. Yousef Al Hammadi, Executive Director of Knowledge and Impact at the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, said: “At the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, we believe that every child’s journey begins with the strength of their family – and at the heart of that family is the often-overlooked role of the father. By investing in data-driven research and entering into bold academic partnerships, we are not just collecting insights-we are reshaping narratives. The Abu Dhabi Government and ECA are committed to leading a powerful shift in how society values and supports fathers. This research is more than a study; it’s a call to action to uplift fathers as essential anchors in a child’s early life. When fathers are empowered, children thrive.”
The initiative reflects ECA’s broader mandate to promote evidence-led transformation across the early childhood ecosystem. Through its research grants and partnerships, ECA enables academic institutions to conduct applied research that supports public policy development and drives long-term impact for families across Abu Dhabi.
