The value of financial aid provided by the UAE’s federal government and local governments totalled Dh19.2 billion ($5.2 billion)in 2018, reflecting the country’s keenness to support its people and strengthen community cohesion.

This aid accounted for five percent of the government’s total financial expenditure in 2018, which amounted to Dh389.3 billion, reported state news agency Wam, citing statistics from the Ministry of Finance.

Along with cash, the aid also included social aid, subsidies, financial support for partner organisations, and services for vulnerable community segments, such as people of determination, the elderly and families.

The UAE Vision 2021 includes indexes related to social cohesion, based on the principles and values of national identity and social cooperation among the entire community. The national agenda also aims to maintain a cohesive community and preserve the UAE’s culture, heritage and traditions.

Data from the ministry highlights the fact that the aid provided by federal and local governments in 2018 increased by Dh3.2 billion in the first quarter of that year, rising to Dh7.55 billion by the second quarter.

During the third quarter of 2018, the value of aid amounted to Dh3.1 billion, reaching Dh5.32 billion by the end of the year.