DUBAI: The General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) – Dubai organised a special event to mark World Mental Health Day, hosting an awareness exhibition at its headquarters that underscored the importance of mental health in creating a balanced and productive workplace.
The exhibition, held in the main hall of the Directorate, was attended by Lt Gen Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA Dubai; Dr Alawi Sheikh Ali, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA); Maj Gen Obaid Muhair bin Suroor, Deputy Director General of GDRFA Dubai; assistant directors general, and several senior officials.
The initiative aimed to highlight the role of mental health in enhancing quality of life for employees. A range of educational and interactive workshops were conducted to encourage psychological stability and professional balance. The exhibition featured participation from strategic partners, including Zayed University and the American Center for Psychiatry and Neurology, alongside other entities. Partners provided interactive activities and artistic engagement opportunities that promoted the principles of holistic health and encouraged employees to adopt sustainable, healthy lifestyles.
Speaking at the event, Lt Gen Al Marri said prioritising mental health was a fundamental pillar of Dubai’s institutional framework. “At GDRFA Dubai, we believe that investing in an individual’s mental health is no less important than investing in developing their skills and capabilities. A balanced positive mindset is the foundation for higher productivity and workplace happiness, in line with the vision of our wise leadership, which places people at the heart of comprehensive development,” he said.
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He added that such initiatives not only supported employee well-being but also strengthened a culture of mutual respect within the institution, helping establish GDRFA Dubai as a leading government entity committed to adopting global best practices in employee care and workplace sustainability.
Dr Alawi Sheikh Ali highlighted DHA’s comprehensive and integrated strategy to promote mental health across Dubai, in alignment with the objectives of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, which aims to make the emirate the world’s preferred place to live. He said the authority was dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles and psychological stability by providing high standards of care, guidance and consultation to uplift morale and inspire positive energy across society.
Dr Ali also praised GDRFA’s community role and its commitment to raising awareness on issues of public importance, particularly health. He said the Directorate’s efforts in marking World Mental Health Day directly supported DHA’s objectives and reflected a shared vision of promoting well-being across the emirate.
