Khalifa Al-Salfa, an advisor for the Dubai Land Department, highlighted the launch of the “Barwa” program, initiated by the department in collaboration with Dubai’s Community Development Authority. This initiative aims to enhance the financial sustainability of senior citizens and people of determination in the real estate sector, aligning with the main objectives of Dubai’s Social Agenda 3 and the declaration of 2025 as the Year of Community.
During an interview, he explained that the program’s name is derived from the document indicating property ownership, which secures the rights of homeowners. This document would traditionally be housed in a metallic cylindrical container made of tin to protect valuable papers from damage, typically stored in a safe due to its significance.
Global Standards
Al-Salfa noted that the program offers a comprehensive service package aimed at empowering senior citizens and people of determination in property sales, rentals, and management. It seeks to achieve six primary goals:
- Providing detailed services for seniors and people of determination.
- Supporting their independence.
- Ensuring sustainable financial income.
- Delivering high-quality services that meet global standards.
- Enhancing partnerships with the private sector.
- Strengthening collaboration with the government sector.
Income Sustainability
The “Barwa” program encompasses seven main service areas, focusing on economic partnerships to assist these demographics in re-renting and revitalizing properties, particularly for those lacking sufficient management skills. This is intended to help maintain and enhance their income sustainability.
The service areas include: mobile field services, digital services, financial and digital consultations, awareness and training, service facilities, partnerships with the private sector, and collaborations with the government sector.
Mobile Units
Al-Salfa added that the mobile field services consist of two components: “Al-Tarsh” and “Al-Karani.” These were previously roles that have been transformed into services aimed at assisting seniors and people of determination by delivering services directly to their location using fully equipped mobile units, thus meeting their real estate needs without requiring them to travel to the department’s offices.
Moreover, a personal assistant will be assigned to each individual in these categories at the department to handle their transactions without the need to wait in line or navigate between departments, continually following up on their real estate matters and providing necessary support regardless of the type of disability.
Digital Services
Regarding digital services, Al-Salfa elaborated that they include two offerings: “Al-Katub,” a user-friendly digital platform allowing seniors and people of determination to manage their property affairs remotely, equipped with features tailored for individuals with disabilities.
The second service, “Al-Marsal,” consists of a digital support team that provides immediate assistance and responses to inquiries and offers real estate services quickly and smoothly through a dedicated hotline.
In terms of financial and real estate consultations, Al-Salfa noted that these will include exclusive discounts and offers for seniors and people of determination on selected services from the Land Department, along with flexible installment plans.
Real Estate Workshops
He also mentioned the “Real Estate Workshops” initiative, aimed at organizing periodic workshops and training courses for seniors and people of determination.
The goal is to educate beneficiaries on real estate investment processes, covering relevant laws, purchasing and investment methods, and explaining property management in an accessible manner.
Luxurious Facilities
As for the service facilities, the department has launched “Al-Barza,” which are luxurious waiting areas designed to ensure comfort for these groups while they are waiting to complete their transactions, offering them special hospitality in an elegant environment that caters to their needs.
Concerning partnerships with the private sector, Al-Salfa stated that the “Al-Hasla” program was introduced in collaboration with private companies to provide innovative solutions tailored for managing properties owned by seniors and people of determination who require extra support.
The aim is to manage these properties effectively and increase their investments. He emphasized that these partnerships offer four main benefits: comprehensive rental management, maintenance services, monthly reports, and investment consultations, with agreements already established with four leading real estate firms.
These include: “On Plan Real Estate Group,” “SBK Real Estate Group,” “Al-Ruwad Real Estate Group,” and “Harbor Real Estate Group,” all aimed at ensuring the sustainability of properties and income for the beneficiaries, with plans to expand such partnerships in the future to maintain their income stability.
Respect Register
Regarding the last partnership, which is with the government sector, Al-Salfa explained that it involves the establishment of a “Respect Register” to enhance cooperation between the Land Department and the Community Development Authority, facilitating information exchange concerning seniors and people of determination to better serve both groups.