This chapter proposes an innovative model for child protection and safeguarding in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). By adapting Haddon’s Matrix, a prevention-oriented framework for child protection could be integrated with the current protection-focused approach (Shenoi et al., J Appl Res Child 4(1), 2013). Child protection typically has two approaches: protective (after harm) and preventative (proactive measures) models. However, the current UAE child-protection model is mostly focused on protection instead of prevention. Thus, the approach of the UAE Federal Law No. 3 is reactive instead of proactive. This chapter utilizes conceptual modelling based on Haddon’s Matrix along with other research findings to propose a shift towards comprehensive framework of child-protection and safeguarding. The Haddon Matrix, a model developed by William Haddon Jr. in the 1970s evaluates issues according to phases of pre-event, event, and post-event (Runyan, Injury Prev 4(4):302–307, 1998). While existing models such as Child Protection System Strengthening (CPSS) approach by UNICEF effectively combine protection and prevention through system strengthening, situating Haddon’s Matrix within child protection systems and integrating it with Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Approach offers a more structured framework for addressing the phases of prevention, intervention, and post-intervention. The importance of addressing underlying risk factors to foster a protective and proactive environment for children is also emphasized. This proposed child protection transformation aligns with the UAE’s commitment to ensuring the safety, well-being, and rights of all children within its borders (UAE SDGs Data Hub, 2022).