UAE: How new programme on building homes helps manage finances, misconceptions

Khaleej Times

18-04-2025

Emirati participants expressed their gratitude for the launch of the 'How to Build Your Home' programme, saying it helped correct many misconceptions and reduced the stress they felt about starting the construction process.
The programme, organised by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MBRHE), brought together citizens who have received land and either a financial grant or a housing loan worth Dh1 million. Their shared goal is to build within a clear and realistic budget.
The programme is part of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment's efforts under the 'Year of the Community' initiative. It offers participants tools to plan their homes within their means.
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Inside a hall with building models and floor plans, Emiratis with a loan or grant from MBRHE gathered to learn how to build their homes. Some had complete plans. Others came to understand the process.
Speaking to Khaleej Times, Hamid Al Shamsi, 33, a real estate consultant from Dubai, said: 'I joined the program to learn. We've always heard that consultants and contractors take advantage. I wanted to see for myself.'
Al Shamsi added that many people begin construction without explicit knowledge. 'Even the homeowner sometimes doesn't know how to deal with a contractor, doesn't know prices, or the steps involved.'
Understanding the process
One of the participants, Mona Al Zarooni said the workshop helped her understand the timeline from grant approval to working with the municipality and contractor. She said: 'I thought everything would move on its own after the grant. But now I understand each step.'
She received a land and loan grant and was unsure how much extra money would be needed. 'I learned that there needs to be an extra 20 to 30 per cent in the budget for internal work and design. No one explained that before,' she added.
She also said she looked into smart home systems. 'They cost more initially, but later they reduce the bills and help manage power use.'
The programme also introduced smart home systems, which are not required but can control electricity and reduce bills over time.
'Planning for life'
Abdulrahman Tariq Al Tamimi from Dubai received a land grant in Al Aweer. He said the workshop helped reduce his concerns. 'I have a basic plan for the house, but now I want to sit with my wife, explain what I learned, and decide together. This kind of information is not easy to get,' he noted.
Sessions for the 'How to Build Your Home' programme are taking place at the New Economy Academy in Dubai. Discussions include lectures and workshops on budgeting, selecting a contractor, reviewing contracts, managing loans, and handling VAT refunds. Experts are also encouraging participants to review their house plans during the sessions to identify mistakes and ensure they have the correct plan.
Tareq Al Hammadi pointed out that several common misconceptions can drive up construction costs. These include choosing the lowest bid without checking quality, changing designs during construction, skipping contract review, and not involving family members in the process.
'Planning to build a house is like planning for life. Use knowledge. If you plan well, you may spend less than expected. But without knowledge, costs increase. Don't sign anything unless you understand it," advised the engineer.