3,000 Homes to Boost Stability and Growth under Sheikha Hind’s Family Programme
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, has approved a massive Dh5.4 billion housing project to construct over 3,000 residential units for Emiratis. The initiative, which prioritizes newlyweds, aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to promote family stability and enhance the quality of life for Emirati families.
Transforming Lives Through Housing Support
The project is a cornerstone of the recently launched Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme, aimed at supporting Emirati families through housing, financial assistance, and social empowerment. Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the importance of the initiative, saying:
“In support of Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme, we approved a package of housing projects, aiming to build over 3,000 units worth Dh5.4 billion. The goal is to provide decent housing for families, to make life easier and to improve the quality of life for our youth who are starting their lives.”
Priority for the housing units will be given to participants of the Dubai Weddings Programme, which encourages young Emiratis to marry and supports them financially in their journey.
Holistic Family Empowerment
On the same day, Her Highness Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum launched the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme. This programme encompasses a range of initiatives to promote family stability, including housing support, flexible work policies, and financial education. Speaking about the programme, Sheikha Hind remarked:
“Strong families are essential to create a better future. We are committed to fulfilling the aspirations of every Emirati family in Dubai, ensuring their lasting happiness and stability while empowering them to nurture future generations who can shape a brighter tomorrow.”
The initiative aligns with the Dubai Social Agenda 33, which aims to double the number of Emirati families in Dubai by 2033 while fostering connected and value-driven communities.
Key Benefits and Progress
The first phase of the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme includes:
- Housing Support: Ready-made housing prioritised for beneficiaries under the Dubai Weddings Programme.
- Financial Literacy Courses: Financial planning, saving, and debt management for young couples.
- Flexible Work Policies: 10-day paid marriage leave and remote work options for new mothers.
- Marital Awareness Training: Life planning and emotional tools for building happy families.
Notably, the Dubai Weddings Programme, launched in January 2024, has already facilitated 344 weddings, representing 28.3% of all Emirati marriages in Dubai last year. It also contributed to a 10.1% rise in Emirati weddings compared to 2023.
Registration and Future Plans
Emirati citizens planning to marry can register for the Dubai Weddings Programme via the ‘Emirati’ platform on the Dubai Now app or through the Community Development Authority’s website. Participants are eligible to apply for housing benefits within one year of joining the programme.
Future phases of the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme aim to expand benefits into education, healthcare, and additional social services, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for Emirati families.
