News DeskDubai: The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai marked World Mental Health Day with a dedicated awareness event aimed at promoting psychological well-being among its workforce.
Held at the main hall of the GDRFA headquarters, the exhibition reflected the authority’s ongoing commitment to fostering a supportive and positive work environment.
The event was attended by Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA Dubai; Dr. Alawi Sheikh Ali, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA); Major General Obaid Muhair bin Suroor, Deputy Director General of GDRFA Dubai; along with assistant directors general and several senior officials.
Interactive workshops and educational sessions were conducted to highlight the importance of mental health in enhancing productivity and workplace stability. Strategic partners including Zayed University and the American Center for Psychiatry and Neurology participated in the exhibition, offering artistic and wellness activities that encouraged employees to adopt healthier lifestyles.
Lt Gen Al Marri stressed that mental well-being is integral to institutional success. “Investing in mental health is just as vital as developing skills and capabilities,” he said. “A balanced mindset is key to workplace happiness and productivity, in line with our leadership’s vision that places people at the centre of development.”
He added that the initiative supports a culture of empathy and collaboration within the organisation, reinforcing GDRFA Dubai’s standing as a government entity that embraces global best practices in employee care.
DHA Director General Dr. Alawi Sheikh Ali praised GDRFA Dubai’s proactive role in community engagement, noting that the authority’s efforts complement the Dubai Social Agenda 33, which aims to make Dubai the world’s best city to live in.
He reaffirmed DHA’s commitment to promoting psychological well-being across the emirate through integrated strategies and public awareness campaigns.
“We seek to inspire positive energy and uplift morale by providing access to quality care, guidance and consultation,” Dr. Ali said. “GDRFA’s initiative directly supports our goals, and we value this partnership.”
The event concluded with participants reaffirming their commitment to collective efforts that normalise conversations around mental health and break societal stigmas.
