Abstract

The global pandemic of COVID-19 has had a profound impact on families across the globe, resulting in substantial disturbances to their daily routines, employment situations, and interpersonal relationships. This case study examines the transformation of family values and relationships in Ajman Emirate amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. This study seeks to gain insight into the effects of the pandemic on family dynamics and explore potential implications for practical interventions and policy development by analyzing the experiences and perspectives of families in the region. The study sample comprises a randomly selected group of 300 households residing in nine residential sectors within the city of Ajman. The participants included in the study were aged 18 years or older and were selected through a random sampling method. To collect data, an online questionnaire was developed and administered during the period from December 15, 2021, to February 12, 2022. The primary finding of this study highlights that amidst the ongoing pandemic, families in the United Arab Emirates have exhibited resilience by maintaining cohesion. Specifically, the study reveals that the challenges and disruptions brought about by the pandemic have not significantly altered family values and the collective relationships among families. The relatively slow pace of change in cultural practices pertaining to responses to consolation and burial has the potential to contribute to the transmission and dissemination of infectious diseases within the surrounding environment. The comparative analysis of the findings in this study with similar studies conducted in various regions contributes to the enrichment of the global knowledge repository. In all aspects, this particular case study makes a valuable contribution to the expanding corpus of knowledge concerning the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on families residing in the Ajman Emirate. By acknowledging the shifts in familial values and dynamics, policymakers and professionals have the opportunity to construct interventions and policies grounded in empirical evidence. These measures aim to provide assistance to families and improve their overall welfare during periods of turmoil.