Sheikh Mohammed approves Dh5.4 billion housing project to support young Emiratis

Scheme aims to encourage young people to get married, Ruler of Dubai says

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, said priority for housing will be given to those taking part in the Dubai Wedding Initiative. Photo: UAE Presidential Court

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, has approved a housing project worth Dh5.4 billion for young Emiratis planning to start families.

The initiative includes the construction of more than 3,000 housing units in Dubai.

Of these, 1,181 homes will come up in Latifa City for beneficiaries under the housing loan category. For beneficiaries in the housing grant category, the projects will see 606 new homes in Al Yalayis 5, 432 homes in Wadi Al Amardi, 398 homes in Al Awir 1, 200 homes in the Makan area of Hatta, 120 homes in Oud Al Muteena, and 67 homes in the countryside and rural areas of Dubai.

In a social media post, Sheikh Mohammed said priority will be given to those participating in the Dubai Wedding Initiative.

"The goal is to encourage young people to get married," Sheikh Mohammed wrote on X. "The goal is to provide decent housing for families. The goal is to make life easier and raise its quality for our young people who are about to start life."

The housing projects will align with the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum family programme, which was launched on January 4, to strengthen community values, enhance quality of life and promote work-life balance by offering financial, social and educational support.

The UAE leaders will "continue to support everything that contributes to the prosperity, stability and comfort of our citizens", Sheikh Mohammed added.

On January 3, Sheikh Mohammed dedicated the 19th anniversary of his accession to his wife, Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum, whom he said is his "greatest supporter" and the "foundation" of his family.

Sheikh Mohammed thanked Sheikha Hind for being at his side during a remarkable chapter in his life and career. He described her as the "spirit of Dubai" and "mother of Sheikhs" in an uplifting message on X.

"I would like to dedicate the 4th of January this year to my wife, Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum, my companion, my support and my backer in this life," Sheikh Mohammed wrote.

"Sheikha Hind is one of the most compassionate, generous and charitable people. She is the pillar of my home, the foundation of my family and my greatest supporter throughout my career."