Latest news with #AffordableHousingPolicy
Hi Dubai
20-05-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Dubai Launches Major Affordable Housing Initiative to Boost Urban Livability
Dubai has taken a major step toward inclusive urban living with the launch of a new wave of affordable housing projects, following an agreement signed in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai Municipality, and Wasl Group signed the agreement to develop more than 17,000 residential units across six key areas, including Me'aisem 1, Al Twar 1, and Al Qusais Industrial Area 5. Spanning 1.46 million square metres, the projects aim to provide high-quality housing at affordable rents, targeting skilled professionals from both public and private sectors. The initiative aligns with directives from The Executive Council and supports the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the Affordable Housing Policy. These efforts seek to create vibrant, inclusive communities with improved access to services, efficient connectivity, and reduced commuting times. 'This programme reflects our leadership's commitment to community well-being,' said HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director General of the RTA. 'It will help cut living costs, improve employee satisfaction, and support a more balanced urban lifestyle.' HE Marwan bin Ghalita of Dubai Municipality emphasized the initiative's role in strengthening Dubai's social fabric and enhancing quality of life, while HE Hesham Al Qassim of Wasl Group noted its contribution to sustainable, future-ready housing. The first phase of development will serve as a model for future projects aimed at optimising land use and meeting the diverse needs of Dubai's growing population. The programme also supports the UAE's broader goal of making 2025 the 'Year of Community.' News Source: Dubai Media Office
Time of India
03-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
E-draw for 708 affordable flats will be held again in Gurugram
GURUGRAM : The department of town and country planning (DTCP) has scrapped the e-draw held on Jan 27 for the allotment of 708 flats under the affordable housing scheme in Sohna Sector 36. The decision to scrap the e-draw — announced through a public notice on Thursday (May 1) — came after alleged "technical discrepancies and regional bias" raised serious concerns over the fairness of the process. A four-member probe panel has already been set up after "technical glitches" hit the Aster Avenue-36 project being developed by 4S Developers Pvt Ltd. A senior DTCP official, who ordered a probe on Feb 13, said on Friday the allotments stand cancelled and a fresh draw will be conducted soon. "Instructions have been issued for a complete review and test run of the software to ensure future draws comply with policy norms," he said. According to the public notice issued by senior town planner Renuka Singh on May 1, the department cancelled the draw after discovering only 2,200 of the 51,586 valid applications were processed by the e-draw software due to a technical glitch. The flawed draw not only excluded a large number of applicants but also raised eyebrows when all 708 flats were allotted to residents of Sohna town alone. This allocation pattern violated the state's Affordable Housing Policy, 2013 which prioritises Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) beneficiaries but does not allow preference based on geographic location. Anamika, an applicant from Delhi, said, "It's unfair that all flats went to one town. The govt must ensure transparency." Arvind Kumar from the city echoed her concerns, saying, "Affordable housing should be inclusive. This issue must not be repeated." Following the controversy, a four-member committee was set up to investigate whether the irregularities stemmed from a technical malfunction, administrative oversight or deliberate bias. The panel, comprising senior officials from the town planning and IT departments, has been directed to examine the e-draw system and submit a report within 10 days. The project, under licence number 235 of 2023, originally received 52,033 applications, out of which 447 were disqualified due to incomplete documents. A DTCP official said, "Applicants who no longer wish to participate in the project can withdraw their applications through the portal ( and receive a full refund. The department assured that the fresh draw will include all 51,586 previously eligible applicants and the date will be announced shortly." The incident has sparked a debate on the need for greater oversight in Haryana's affordable housing allotment system.
Time of India
02-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Tech glitch, regional bias: E-draw for 708 affordable flats will be held again in Gurgaon
Gurgaon: The department of town and country planning (DTCP) has scrapped the e-draw held on Jan 27 for the allotment of 708 flats under the affordable housing scheme in Sohna Sector 36. The decision to scrap the e-draw — announced through a public notice on Thursday (May 1) — came after alleged "technical discrepancies and regional bias" raised serious concerns over the fairness of the process. A four-member probe panel has already been set up after "technical glitches" hit the Aster Avenue-36 project being developed by 4S Developers Pvt Ltd. A senior DTCP official, who ordered a probe on Feb 13, said on Friday the allotments stand cancelled and a fresh draw will be conducted soon. "Instructions have been issued for a complete review and test run of the software to ensure future draws comply with policy norms," he said. You Can Also Check: Gurgaon AQI | Weather in Gurgaon | Bank Holidays in Gurgaon | Public Holidays in Gurgaon According to the public notice issued by senior town planner Renuka Singh on May 1, the department cancelled the draw after discovering only 2,200 of the 51,586 valid applications were processed by the e-draw software due to a technical glitch. The flawed draw not only excluded a large number of applicants but also raised eyebrows when all 708 flats were allotted to residents of Sohna town alone. This allocation pattern violated the state's Affordable Housing Policy, 2013 which prioritises Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) beneficiaries but does not allow preference based on geographic location. Anamika, an applicant from Delhi, said, "It's unfair that all flats went to one town. The govt must ensure transparency." Arvind Kumar from the city echoed her concerns, saying, "Affordable housing should be inclusive. This issue must not be repeated." Following the controversy, a four-member committee was set up to investigate whether the irregularities stemmed from a technical malfunction, administrative oversight or deliberate bias. The panel, comprising senior officials from the town planning and IT departments, has been directed to examine the e-draw system and submit a report within 10 days. The project, under licence number 235 of 2023, originally received 52,033 applications, out of which 447 were disqualified due to incomplete documents. A DTCP official said, "Applicants who no longer wish to participate in the project can withdraw their applications through the portal ( and receive a full refund. The department assured that the fresh draw will include all 51,586 previously eligible applicants and the date will be announced shortly." The incident has sparked a debate on the need for greater oversight in Haryana's affordable housing allotment system.
Khaleej Times
15-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: New affordable housing project to serve residents across income levels, says top official
A housing project announced this week will see units ranging from studios to three-bedroom apartments offered at affordable rents in Dubai. These units will cater to the needs of residents across different income levels, a top official told Khaleej Times. Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed approved the allocation of 1.46 million square metres of land for the project. The first phase will develop six sites in Al Mueisim 1, Al Twar 1, Al Qusais Industrial 5, and Al Leyan 1. 'The project in its initial phase will provide more than 17,000 residential units with affordable rent prices for skilled professionals of various nationalities working in vital and strategic sectors across both the public and private sectors in Dubai,' Nasser Abu Shehab, head of Dubai Urban Planning Coordination Committee, told Khaleej Times. The first phase targets skilled professionals across: Dubai government departments Healthcare sector (nursing, medical support services, etc.) Education sector (teachers, administrators, etc.) Transportation sector Tourism and hospitality sector Telecommunications and technology sector Entertainment, culture, and creative arts sector The official did not reveal the average rents at which these units will be offered. 'Project details and prices will be identified in the next phase,' he said. In addition to 'high-quality residential spaces', the six developments will feature integrated community facilities and open spaces. Closer to workplaces The project is part of a wider Affordable Housing Policy that aims to foster vibrant and healthy communities and address housing needs. 'The policy caters to various segments of society, offering a range of housing options suitable for individuals across different income levels. Additionally, it will facilitate the development of new accommodations for workers closer to their workplaces, enhancing the quality of these facilities and ensuring the provision of adequate services for all segments of society. The policy also seeks to strengthen social cohesion and improve urban development,' said Abu Shehab. Overseen by the Supreme Committee for Urban Planning, the project will be implemented by multiple departments, including Dubai Land Department, Dubai Municipality, Roads and Transport Authority, General Directorate for Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai, Dubai Civil Defence, and Dubai Real Estate Corporation. After reaching historic highs, rentals in Dubai are stablising. Rents are still expected to increase across the Emirate, although at a moderate pace of around 10 per cent. As reported by Khaleej Times, real estate experts have noted how several residents are opting to buy homes due to rising rents. Quoting Dubai Land Department data, Allsopp & Allsopp said Dubai recorded a 30 per cent drop in month-on-month rental renewals. Christopher Cina, director of Sales at Betterhomes, said the real estate platform has seen 'continued growth in buyer interest, particularly from residents moving from renting to owning, driven by historically high rents'. 'This shift also reflects a more long-term commitment to living in Dubai.'
Dubai Eye
13-03-2025
- Business
- Dubai Eye
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan approves development of 17,000 new homes
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, approved several new policies during a meeting of The Executive Council. Under the Affordable Housing policy, Dubai has allocated 1.46 million square metres of land to develop 17,080 housing units across Dubai. His Highness reaffirmed that Dubai's position as a leading global city stems from a vision centred on empowering individuals, families, and communities. 'Shaping the future and pursuing sustained growth through empowerment has long been a guiding principle for Dubai, it is a vision we continue to follow under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai. We are realising this vision through cross-sector collaboration, ensuring Dubai remains the destination of choice for the most ambitious global talent,' Sheikh Hamdan noted. He added: "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 affordable housing project is in line with the Affordable Housing Policy approved by the Council, and the objectives of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. The initiative, which targets skilled professionals in Dubai, aims to develop more vibrant communities, support economic growth, create jobs, and improve access to quality housing and essential services for residents of all incomes. The first phase will develop six sites in Al Mueisim 1, Al Twar 1, Al Qusais Industrial 5, and Al Leyan 1. The new residential units will be offered at affordable rental rates, featuring thoughtfully designed, high-quality living spaces with access to key infrastructure and essential services. The Council also approved the Enhancing Arabic Language and Islamic Studies Outcomes Policy, "reaffirming our commitment to comprehensive educational development and preserving our national identity, the Arabic language, and Islamic values." The new education policy approved at the meeting supports Dubai's goal to rank among the world's top ten cities for education quality. It focuses on effective teaching methods from early childhood to pre-primary levels, aiming to raise academic performance in Arabic language and Islamic studies. It also fosters closer collaboration between teachers and parents, recognising the role of both schools and families in strengthening students' cultural and national identity. The Dubai Protocol for Curriculum Enhancement and the Emirati Teacher Recruitment and Training Programme are two of the initiatives being introduced under the policy, which also comprises partnerships with universities and colleges. The policy includes a school–parent partnership programme to support curriculum development. The initiative focuses on modern learning materials that will help develop students' critical thinking and research skills, while promoting professional development among teachers. The policy also aims to increase the number of Emirati teachers in Arabic language and Islamic studies. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) will oversee the policy's implementation in coordination with private schools across Dubai. This initiative includes increasing the percentage of Emirati teachers in core subjects in private schools. The Council also approved the Independent Legal Consultant Project, which enables Emirati legal professionals to work as independent legal consultants with flexible hours, without the need to establish law firms in a physical office. Sheikh Hamdan commented: 'The legal profession is evolving, and we encourage Emiratis to explore the opportunities in this dynamic field. Dubai remains a hub for entrepreneurship, supporting innovative work models that promote work-life balance and enhance quality of life.'
