GCC Social Affairs Under-Secretaries Review 2026–2030 Plan

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, October 7, 2026

Representatives from GCC member states, including officials from Oman, met virtually under Bahrain’s hosting to review progress and plan social development initiatives for 2026–2030. This coordination aims to strengthen regional cooperation on social welfare, particularly for vulnerable groups, ensuring cohesive policies and programs across the Gulf.

Representatives from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states convened virtually on Tuesday for the 12th meeting of the Committee of Under-Secretaries of Social Affairs and Development Ministries. Hosted by the Kingdom of Bahrain, the session focused on reviewing progress related to social development initiatives across the GCC and advancing strategic planning for the 2026–2030 period.

The Sultanate of Oman was represented by Dr. Abdullah bin Hamoud al Harthi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development for Persons with Disabilities, along with Hamoud bin Mardad al Shabibi, Adviser to the Minister of Social Development for Planning. The delegation participated alongside counterparts from other GCC states to evaluate the implementation of previous decisions and align future efforts.

Key agenda items included the follow-up on the enactment of resolutions from the 11th meeting of the Committee of Ministers of Social Affairs and Development. The participants also conducted a detailed review of the action plan established by the Committee of Ministers of Social Affairs and Development, which covers social policies and programs intended to operate through 2030.

The gathering emphasized cooperation among GCC countries in addressing social welfare challenges and improving developmental frameworks in the region. By coordinating policies and sharing expertise, member states aim to enhance the effectiveness of social programs, particularly those supporting vulnerable populations such as persons with disabilities.

This meeting marks an ongoing commitment by the GCC social affairs ministries to harmonize their approaches in fostering sustainable social development. The cooperative agenda reflects broader regional efforts to address evolving demographic and social needs, ensuring that long-term plans are responsive to the changing realities within Gulf societies.

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