His Highness: The Agreement Supports Development Needs Within Dubai’s Urban Plan 2040
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, presided over the signing of an agreement for the implementation of affordable housing projects between the Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Municipality, and Wasl Group.
Dubai’s Vision
In a tweet on his account on the platform X, His Highness stated, “I witnessed the signing of an agreement for the implementation of a series of affordable housing projects between the Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Municipality, and Wasl Group, which supports the development needs within the Dubai Urban Plan 2040.”
The initiative’s objectives include the allocation of six diverse areas in Dubai, covering 1.46 million square meters for the development of over 17,000 housing units intended for skilled professionals from various nationalities working in vital and strategic sectors in both public and private domains.
Our goal is to provide comprehensive and convenient housing solutions for professionals in Dubai, positively impacting their quality of life and happiness while enhancing Dubai’s standing as the best city to live and work in globally.
Development Needs
The agreement was signed by His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority, and Marwan bin Ghalita, Director-General of Dubai Municipality, along with Hisham Abdullah Al Qasem, CEO of Wasl Group.
This agreement manifests the Executive Council’s decision to allocate land for affordable housing projects, aligning with the requirements of the Dubai Urban Plan 2040 and supporting the objectives of affordable housing policy aimed at planning and developing vibrant and healthy communities.
It emphasizes the development of urban centers contributing to economic sectors, diversifying job opportunities, and providing housing needs and services for residents of various income levels.
Additionally, it aims to provide a variety of suitable housing options that adhere to established standards, facilitate access to the city center, ensure the availability of logistical services, and support the concept of a 20-minute city.
In the initial phase, six areas have been designated in the Al Muhaisnah First, Al Towar First, Al Qusais Industrial 5, and Al Liwan 1 zones, totaling an area of approximately 1.46 million square meters.
Over 17,000 housing units will be offered to skilled professionals from various nationalities engaged in essential and strategic sectors in both the public and private arenas. This initiative aims to provide suitable housing options at affordable rents while optimizing land use and delivering appropriate housing models.
Commitment and Oversight
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer affirmed that the housing file receives significant attention from the leadership, with resources and efforts dedicated to enhancing residents’ quality of life and achieving their happiness and well-being.
He noted that the affordable housing program is one of Dubai’s leading initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals and families residing in the emirate, balancing work with social and family life, coinciding with the UAE’s declaration of 2025 as the Year of Community.
His Excellency stated, “The affordable housing program contributes to achieving the objectives of the Dubai Urban Plan 2040, positioning Dubai as the best city for living in the world, where citizens and residents enjoy integrated and convenient housing options and solutions.”
Moreover, the program will help reduce the duration of employees’ commutes between their homes and workplaces, thereby positively affecting living costs, enhancing productivity, and increasing employee satisfaction.
A Cohesive Community
For his part, Engineer Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, emphasized that the projects under the affordable housing policy reflect the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, in building a cohesive and prosperous community, establishing Dubai as the best city for living and working worldwide.
Supported by advanced quality of life standards in vibrant urban communities, these initiatives enhance the residents’ capacity for sustainable growth, achieving their aspirations and ongoing successes.
He added, “Under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the new projects under the affordable housing policy aim to create significant developments in establishing sustainable urban centers that support the development needs outlined in the Dubai Urban Plan 2040.”
These projects will also help establish inclusive health communities that enjoy high levels of integrated services and recreational facilities to meet resident needs and foster job opportunities that promote economic and commercial growth, in addition to advancing sustainable urban planning that makes Dubai more attractive, sustainable, and livable.
Clear Vision
Hisham Abdullah Al Qasem, CEO of Wasl Group, commented, “Wasl plays a pivotal role in supporting Dubai’s efforts to achieve a clear vision for a comprehensive urban future that meets the needs of all community segments.”
The memorandum of understanding with the Roads and Transport Authority and Dubai Municipality represents a qualitative move towards translating visions into actionable projects, enhancing the availability of sustainable and affordable housing options. Discussions at the recently held “Communication Bridges” workshop highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts and joint action to ensure sustainable growth that meets the aspirations of Dubai’s residents, aligning with the objectives of the Dubai Urban Plan 2040.
Mattar Al Tayer:
The wise leadership dedicates resources and efforts to serve residents and ensure their happiness and well-being.
Marwan bin Ghalita:
Significant advancements in developing urban centers enhance the future of housing in the emirate.
Hisham Al Qasem:
Translating visions into actionable projects increases the availability of sustainable housing options.