The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai Municipality and Wasl Group signed an agreement today to implement a series of affordable housing projects across the emirate in the presence of His Highness 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.
The agreement follows a directive from the Executive Council of Dubai to allocate land for affordable housing projects, in line with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the objectives of the Affordable Housing Policy. This policy aims to develop vibrant, healthy communities, support urban centers that drive key economic sectors, diversify employment opportunities, and address the housing and service needs of residents across income levels.
It also seeks to provide diverse, high-quality housing options that meet approved standards, ensure connectivity to the city centre, offer access to essential services and align with the 20-Minute City concept.
Development to deliver over 17,000 residential units
The first phase of Dubai’s affordable housing projects covers six areas across Muhaisnah 1, Al Twar 1, Al Qusais Industrial Area 5, and Al Leyan 1, with a combined area of approximately 1.46 million square meters.
The development will deliver more than 17,000 residential units, catering to skilled professionals of various nationalities working in strategic positions in both public and private sectors. The overall objective is to provide suitable housing options at affordable rental rates, optimize land use, and develop residential models tailored to diverse community needs.
“Housing remains a key priority under the guidance of our leadership, reflecting their commitment to enhancing community well-being and quality of life. The Affordable Housing Program is one of the Dubai Government’s pioneering initiatives aimed at supporting individual and family welfare, while promoting a balanced lifestyle. The launch of the program also aligns with the UAE’s designation of 2025 as the ‘Year of Community’,” stated Mattar Al Tayer, director general, chairman of the board of executive directors of the RTA, and chairman of the Supreme Committee for Urban Planning.
Dubai’s Affordable Housing Program also supports the objectives of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which envisions Dubai as the world’s best city to live in, offering integrated, accessible and high-quality housing solutions. It also contributes to reducing commuting times between residences and workplaces, helping lower the cost of living, enhancing productivity and improving employee satisfaction and well-being.
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Dubai targets developing sustainable urban centers
For his part, Marwan Ahmad bin Ghalita, director general of Dubai Municipality, said the affordable housing projects reflect the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to build a cohesive and prosperous society and position Dubai as the best city in the world to live and work.
“This vision is driven by a commitment to providing a world-class quality of life within vibrant and empowered communities, enabling residents to grow sustainably, realise their aspirations, and sustain their success,” he added.
The new projects introduced under the Affordable Housing Policy mark a major step in developing sustainable urban centers that will shape the future of housing in Dubai and support the goals of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. These projects will also contribute to building inclusive, healthy communities equipped with comprehensive services and recreational facilities that meet residents’ needs.
“In parallel, they will support job creation, stimulate economic and commercial activity, and strengthen sustainable urban planning—enhancing Dubai’s attractiveness, resilience, and livability,” he added.
