Sharjah has taken another meaningful step toward inclusive governance with the launch of the Awn 60+ service, a thoughtfully designed initiative created to support residents aged 60 and above. Introduced by the Sharjah Economic Development Department, the service reflects a clear understanding of the practical challenges senior citizens often face when accessing government services. Rather than expecting elderly residents to adapt to systems that may feel complex or inaccessible, Awn 60+ adapts services to meet them where they are.
This initiative is more than an administrative upgrade. It represents a human-centred approach to public service, one that recognises dignity, comfort, and independence as essential elements of quality of life. By combining digital accessibility with personalised, home-based assistance, Sharjah continues to demonstrate its long-standing commitment to community wellbeing.
What Is the Awn 60+ Service?
Awn 60+ is a dedicated service channel designed exclusively for senior citizens. It enables eligible residents to complete a wide range of economic and commercial transactions without the need to physically visit SEDD headquarters. From the comfort of their homes, beneficiaries can access essential services that previously required in-person visits, long waits, or complex digital navigation.
The service is structured to remove barriers rather than add new layers of complexity. Whether a senior citizen is comfortable using digital tools or prefers direct human assistance, Awn 60+ offers flexible options tailored to individual needs. This balance between technology and personal care is what sets the initiative apart.
Wide Range of Services Under One Umbrella
Through Awn 60+, senior citizens can complete numerous transactions that are central to their professional or business activities. These include the issuance, renewal, and amendment of commercial licences, processing of commercial permits, technical evaluations, and access to legal services offered by the department.
By making these services available remotely or through assisted channels, SEDD ensures that age does not become a limiting factor in economic participation. Senior entrepreneurs, business owners, and investors can continue their activities smoothly, without unnecessary physical strain or logistical difficulties.
Home-Based Assistance That Puts People First
One of the most impactful aspects of Awn 60+ is its home-based service option. For senior citizens who find it difficult to travel or who face challenges using digital platforms, trained SEDD staff can visit beneficiaries directly at their homes. These visits are designed to be respectful, efficient, and reassuring, offering personalised support in a familiar environment.
This approach recognises that true accessibility is not achieved through technology alone. Human interaction, patience, and understanding play an equally important role, especially for elderly residents who may feel overwhelmed by rapid digital transformation. By bringing services to their doorsteps, Sharjah ensures no one is left behind.
Digital Support Without Pressure
For seniors who are willing to engage with digital platforms but need guidance, Awn 60+ provides structured support to help them navigate online services confidently. Instead of forcing full digital independence, the service offers assisted digital access, allowing users to complete transactions with step-by-step help when required.
This model empowers senior citizens without pressuring them to master unfamiliar systems overnight. Over time, many beneficiaries gain confidence, while others continue to rely on assisted options, knowing that flexibility remains available.
Leadership Perspective on Inclusive Development
Hamad Ali Abdalla Al Mahmoud, Chairman of SEDD and a member of Sharjah’s Executive Council, emphasised that Awn 60+ reflects the emirate’s broader vision of inclusive development. According to Hamad Ali Abdalla Al Mahmoud, senior citizens deserve services that respect their time, comfort, and dignity, whether delivered digitally or through on-site field visits.
His remarks underline a governance philosophy that places people at the centre of policy decisions. By prioritising senior citizens, Sharjah reinforces its identity as a community-oriented emirate that values every stage of life.
Measuring Satisfaction and Improving Continuously
SEDD has also committed to regularly evaluating the effectiveness of Awn 60+. Periodic surveys will be conducted among beneficiaries to measure satisfaction levels and identify areas for improvement. This feedback-driven approach ensures that the service evolves in response to real experiences rather than assumptions.
Listening to senior citizens themselves allows the department to fine-tune service delivery, improve response times, and enhance overall quality. It also sends a strong message that the voices of elderly residents matter in shaping public services.
Supporting Independence and Economic Participation
Beyond convenience, Awn 60+ plays an important role in preserving independence among senior citizens. Many elderly residents remain active contributors to the economy, whether through small businesses, consultancy roles, or family enterprises. Simplifying access to economic services helps them maintain autonomy and confidence.
By removing physical and digital barriers, the service allows seniors to stay engaged, productive, and connected. This not only benefits individuals but also strengthens the wider community by valuing experience and long-term contribution.
A Model for Community-Centred Governance
The launch of Awn 60+ reinforces Sharjah’s reputation as an emirate that prioritises social cohesion alongside economic growth. It demonstrates how government entities can innovate thoughtfully, ensuring that progress does not exclude vulnerable groups.
As part of Sharjah’s broader quality-of-life initiatives, Awn 60+ stands as a practical example of inclusive governance in action. It blends compassion with efficiency, technology with humanity, and policy with everyday lived experience.
Looking Ahead
Awn 60+ is not just a service; it is a statement about the kind of society Sharjah aims to build. One where senior citizens are supported, respected, and empowered to access essential services with ease and flexibility. By addressing real needs through practical solutions, Sharjah continues to set a benchmark for people-focused public service.
As the initiative matures and evolves through user feedback, it has the potential to inspire similar models across other sectors, further strengthening the emirate’s commitment to dignity, accessibility, and community wellbeing for all generations.
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