Dubai: H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, witnessed the signing of an agreement to implement affordable housing projects in the emirate. The agreement was signed between the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai Municipality, and Wasl Group.
According to Emirates News Agency, the agreement was signed by Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, and Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Urban Planning, on behalf of the RTA. Marwan bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, signed on behalf of the Municipality, while Hesham Abdulla Al Qassim, Chief Executive Officer of Wasl Group, signed on behalf of Dubai Real Estate Corporation (DREC).
The agreement aligns with a directive from The Executive Council of Dubai to allocate land for affordable housing projects, in accordance with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the objectives of the Affordable Housing Policy. This policy aims to develop communities, support urban centres that drive economic sectors, diversify employment opportunities, and address housing and service needs across income levels. It also seeks to provide diverse housing options that meet approved standards, ensure connectivity to the city centre, and offer essential services in line with the '20-Minute City' concept.
The first phase of the housing projects will cover six areas, including Me'aisem 1, Al Twar 1, Al Qusais Industrial Area 5, and Al Leyan 1, with a combined area of approximately 1.46 million square metres. The development will offer over 17,000 residential units for skilled professionals of various nationalities in strategic positions in both public and private sectors. The objective is to provide affordable housing options, optimise land use, and develop residential models suited to diverse community needs.
Mattar Al Tayer emphasized that housing remains a priority under the leadership's guidance, aiming to enhance community well-being and quality of life. The Affordable Housing Programme is a pioneering initiative by the Dubai Government to support welfare and promote balanced lifestyles, aligning with the UAE's designation of 2025 as the 'Year of Community.'
Marwan Ahmad bin Ghalita highlighted that the affordable housing projects reflect the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to build a cohesive society and position Dubai as the best city to live and work. The projects aim to build inclusive communities with comprehensive services and recreational facilities, supporting job creation and economic activity.
Hesham Abdulla Al Qassim noted that Wasl Group is committed to shaping inclusive urban living, with the collaboration marking a strategic step in delivering sustainable housing solutions. This initiative aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, contributing to a sustainable and future-ready urban landscape.