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29 March 2024

Dubai's fertility rate drops: study

Published
By Staff

Fertility rates among Emiratis in Dubai have dipped to a shocking 3.1 per cent, far below the levels in the remaining six UAE emirates, according to a local study.

The study was a result of a questionnaire covering 950 nationals in the emirate conducted by Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG).

“The survey showed that the fertility rate among Emiratis in Dubai is only 3.1 per cent, much below the level in the other emirates,” said Dr Raed Al Awamleh, MBRSG’s dean.

“The result is considered shocking by the competent authorities. Some of the reasons for this decline include long work hours, late marriage and rising costs of living.”

Quoted by 'Al Bayan' daily, he said detailed results would be revealed late this month, adding that the report also includes proposals to tackle the problem.

He said the proposals to prop up fertility to previous levels include “reactivating” a 2006 cabinet decision to set up nurseries at government departments and other public establishments, support local families, and increasing allowances for Emirati children in a bid to ease costs of living to encourage nationals to make more babies.