Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, approved plans to develop 17,080 affordable residential units in the city. The first phase of the 1.46 million-square-metre project spans six sites in Al Mueisim 1, Al Twar 1, Al Qusais Industrial 5 and Al Leyan 1.
The announcement, aimed at skilled professionals in the emirate, is part of Dubai's Affordable Housing Policy and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. Sheikh Hamdan said, "We are committed to offering a range of housing options, and we welcome all ideas that contribute to a cohesive and prosperous society that embraces diversity, Dubai is a city for everyone."
The new residential units will be offered at affordable rental rates, with access to key infrastructure and essential services. The project will be overseen by the Supreme Committee for Urban Planning and implemented by the Dubai Land Department, Dubai Municipality, the Roads and Transport Authority, the General Directorate for Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai, Dubai Civil Defence and Dubai Real Estate Corporation.
The new residential projects were among several initiatives approved by Sheikh Hamdan at the Executive Council of Dubai's March meeting.
Additionally, Sheikh Hamdan approved a one-year pilot phase to allow for flexible working in the legal profession. The Independent Legal Consultant Project will enable Dubai citizens to practise legal consultancy independently without establishing a physical office.
"The legal profession is evolving, and we encourage Emiratis to explore the opportunities in this dynamic field," said Sheikh Hamdan. "Dubai remains a hub for entrepreneurship, supporting innovative work models that promote work-life balance and enhance quality of life."
