Latest news with #HamdanbinMohammedbinRashidAlMaktoum
Time of India
3 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Dubai Crown Prince reviews family support initiative led by Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum, wife of UAE Vice President
The initiative has boosted Emirati marriage rates significantly, with over 700 weddings held and a 218% increase in participation/Image: WAM Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has reviewed the progress of the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme, a wide-ranging initiative designed to empower Emirati families through financial, social, and educational support. Launched in phases beginning in 2023, the programme is now showing measurable outcomes, including a surge in marriage rates and high satisfaction among beneficiaries. A vision for family-centred development During the programme review, Sheikh Hamdan reiterated the leadership's unwavering commitment to strengthening the family as the cornerstone of a stable and prosperous society. As Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council and Crown Prince of Dubai, he emphasised that human development lies at the centre of Dubai's broader vision for growth. 'The programme reflects our deep commitment to empowering our youth and supporting them in building a future that matches their aspirations. A stable family denotes a fundamental pillar in the development and progress of societies,' he stated. He noted that the government is determined to provide essential resources,ranging from housing and financial support to social care initiatives, to help young people begin their married lives with dignity and stability, emphasising that investing in families is, ultimately, an investment in the nation's future. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Dwarka's New Hotspot: Excellent Investment Opportunity Omaxe state Learn More Undo Backed by the Dubai Social Agenda 33, the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme is part of a long-term strategy to double the number of Emirati families in the emirate by 2033. The agenda also prioritises happiness, community cohesion, and value-based social development. Programme structure and phased rollout The Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme was initiated by the Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai in September 2023, marking the start of operational planning and soft implementation. A more visible, public rollout, referred to as Phase One, took place in January 2024 under the leadership and patronage of H.H. Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, wife of the UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The full suite of benefits, including financial, housing, and training support, became accessible to new beneficiaries starting January 4, 2025, marking the activation of the programme's comprehensive first phase. The programme features a comprehensive support ecosystem for newlyweds, including: Dubai Weddings Programme (launched in January 2024): Full coverage of wedding expenses for ceremonies held at CDA-approved venues and offers financial support to both husband and wife and provides discounts through the Esaad card. Housing assistance : Ready-to-move-in housing options through the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment , with prioritised allocation for eligible couples. Flexible work policies : A 10-day paid marriage leave for government employees. Remote work on Fridays during the first year post-maternity leave for new mothers. Educational courses and awareness programmes : Start it Right : Focuses on marital responsibilities and emotional intelligence. Family Financial Culture – Dubai : Provides essential financial planning skills. How to Build Your Home : Offers practical housing knowledge in partnership with the New Economy Academy. These benefits are available to Emirati citizens in Dubai, provided both partners are UAE nationals. Registration can be completed through the 'Emirati' platform on the Dubai Now app, via the Community Development Authority's website, or by calling 800 2121. These benefits apply to new members of the Dubai Weddings programme from January 4, 2025. Eligible couples wishing to access housing support must apply within one year of receiving benefits through the programme. Highlighting the programme's holistic design, Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director-General of the Community Development Authority, noted that it is built to serve families comprehensively from the earliest stages of marriage through to long-term stability. ' From awareness to empowerment, and from financial to housing support, we are offering a complete ecosystem that supports families at every stage of their journey,' she said. Tangible results and community impact The results of the programme's implementation have been significant. In 2025 alone, over 700 weddings were facilitated through the Dubai Weddings initiative, representing a 218% increase compared to the previous year. These accounted for 27.7% of all marriages registered in Dubai. The demographic profile of the beneficiaries reveals that the largest group included men aged 26–30 and women aged 20–25. Importantly, the initiative also recorded a 95% satisfaction rate among participants. Praising participants in the programme, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan said, Praising the participants of the programme, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed expressed appreciation for the young Emiratis involved, highlighting their proactive and thoughtful approach to starting family life. 'We commend the determination of the youth who have chosen to begin their family lives based on a clear foundation of awareness and responsibility,' said Sheikh Hamdan, noting the example set by this new generation. Beyond wedding facilitation, the programme also provides a minimum monthly housing loan premium of AED 3,333 for beneficiaries earning up to AED 30,000, as well as access to the Esaad loyalty card, offering discounts on healthcare, jewellery, travel, and wedding essentials. An additional benefit includes a remote work provision for newlywed female employees after returning from maternity leave, reinforcing work-life balance in early stages of family life. Guiding vision and future expansion H.H. Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum has been closely involved in shaping the programme's vision, inspired by the guidance of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid. Her Highness has consistently underscored the role of the family in building a strong and cohesive society. 'Strong families are essential to create a better future. We are committed to fulfilling the aspirations of every Emirati family in Dubai, ensuring their lasting happiness and stability while empowering them to nurture future generations who can shape a brighter tomorrow,' she said. In her remarks, Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid also extended her gratitude to H.H. Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum for her generous patronage of the initiative, emphasising the deeper values it represents. 'Dubai Weddings is more than just a scheme providing assistance – it is a gesture rooted in compassion and community spirit. Through this initiative, H.H. Sheikha Hind has touched the lives of countless youths, helping them start on the path of family with confidence and clarity,' she said. Future phases of the programme are set to expand into areas like education, health, and additional social services, with a long-term goal of ensuring that every Emirati family has access to the tools and support needed to thrive.
Tourism Breaking News
3 days ago
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Dubai welcomes 9.88 million international visitors in the first half of 2025
Post Views: 36 According to data published by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) Dubai welcomed 9.88 million international overnight visitors from January to June 2025 – a 6% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Dubai's evolving destination offering, driven by impactful public-private partnerships and amplified through a robust global marketing strategy, resulted in the city welcoming these visitors. 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, said: 'Dubai continues to set new records in international visitation, reinforcing the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai to make the city a major global business and tourism destination. This milestone reflects Dubai's steady growth as a focal point for trade, investment, talent and opportunity and its rise as the world's most connected city. Dubai's ability to create compelling experiences that meet the evolving needs of visitors has strengthened its status as one of the world's most sought-after destinations. From exceptional infrastructure to unique attractions, Dubai offers a model of excellence in the tourism and hospitality sectors grounded in innovation.' 'As we advance the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, tourism will remain key to driving GDP growth and cross-sector value creation in the emirate's economy. By continually anticipating the needs of travellers and exceeding their expectations, we are strengthening Dubai's position as the world's best city to visit, live, and work in. Partnerships, global campaigns, events, and a series of new openings showcased the city to both new and returning international visitors, while DET's bespoke market strategy, working in collaboration with more than 3,000 global and domestic partners, led to growth in key regions. According to the DET data, the GCC and MENA proximity markets had a combined 26% share of overall visitors to Dubai from January to June 2025, with 1.51 million (15%) and 1.12 million (11%) arrivals respectively. Western Europe was the largest source market to Dubai, with 2.12 million visitors (22%), followed by CIS and Eastern Europe (15%), South Asia (15%), North East and South East Asia (9%), the Americas (7%), Africa (4%) and Australasia (2%). With unique offerings, safety and connectivity, Dubai has sustained its status as a preferred travel destination for visitors from both traditional and emerging markets. Adding to its appeal for international audiences, Dubai's accommodation portfolio continues to evolve, offering quality at every price point. In the first six months of 2025, the city expanded its hotel inventory with new openings across all segments and in various locations, including Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab in Umm Suqeim, Cheval Maison in Expo City, The Biltmore Hotel Villas in Al Barsha, and Vida Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai. His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said: 'Dubai's strong tourism performance in the first half of 2025 reflects the enduring strength and adaptability of our economic model, even amid persistent global headwinds. Inflationary pressures, shifting traveller behaviours, and wider macroeconomic uncertainty continue to challenge destinations worldwide. Yet Dubai remains on an upward trajectory, an outcome shaped by the long-term vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and the precision of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. 'Our response has been both deliberate and future-focused: enhancing visitor experiences through technology, investing in high-growth segments such as luxury, wellness, and experiential travel, and promoting deeper cultural exchange through local community engagement. We are embedding sustainability across our tourism ecosystem and focusing on the needs of next-generation travellers, from Gen Z and digital nomads to high-spending global tourists. 'This multifaceted approach not only supports our ambition to become the world's best city to visit, live, work and invest in; it also reinforces Dubai's position as a world-class centre of commerce, innovation, and cultural connection. As we look ahead, we will continue to scale this impact and deliver on the D33 Agenda by driving growth that is both diversified and globally relevant.'
Al Etihad
4 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
Hamdan bin Mohammed reviews outcomes of Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum Family Program
4 Aug 2025 18:52 DUBAI (WAM) His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, affirmed that the leadership places the highest priority on strengthening family values and fostering social cohesion, while ensuring that all necessary resources and support are made available to build a thriving and prosperous Emirati the outcomes of the Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum Family Program, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed emphasised that Dubai's development vision has always placed people at its very in September 2023 by the Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai to empower Emirati families and reinforce social stability through a comprehensive set of initiatives, the programme facilitates a host of benefits, including avenues for psychological and social support, financial literacy, and direct assistance in meeting housing and other expenses incurred by new Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed applauded the success of the Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum Family Program in reinforcing the foundations of social stability by supporting and empowering Emirati families through a series of integrated and high-impact initiatives. The programme aligns with the expansive vision outlined for various social empowerment programmes and their role in creating a lasting positive impact that supports the goals of the Dubai Social Agenda review of the programme is part of ongoing efforts to monitor the social empowerment agenda and ensure that various initiatives aimed at advancing those goals achieve sustainable impact in line with Dubai's strategic Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed said, 'The programme reflects our deep commitment to empowering our youth and supporting them in building a future that matches their aspirations. A stable family denotes a fundamental pillar in the development and progress of societies. We are committed to providing every prerequisite for young people looking to start a dignified family life – including suitable housing, financial support, enhanced employment opportunities, and expanded social care initiatives. We believe that investing in families is an investment in the nation's future, and we will continue working to provide a wholesome environment that ensures well-being and stability for all.'Praising participants in the programme, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed said, 'We commend the determination of the youth who have chosen to begin their family lives based on a clear foundation of awareness and responsibility – setting a proud example for a generation that knows how to shape its future through willpower, hard work, and initiative.'The Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum Family Program has contributed to a significant increase in marriage rates among Emiratis. The Dubai Weddings initiative recorded a 218 percent increase in participation during 2025 compared to 2024, with the number of weddings held to date exceeding 700. Marriages facilitated through the Dubai Weddings initiative accounted for 27.7 percent of all marriages registered in the results also indicated that the largest demographic of beneficiaries consisted of men aged between 26–30 and women aged between 20–25. The programme also recorded an impressive 95 percent beneficiary satisfaction programme offers extensive education and training sessions for couples as part of efforts to ensure the long-term success of marital relationships. Among notable highlights are Start it Right, a course promoting awareness of marital rights and effective approaches to foster mutual understanding; Family Financial Culture – Dubai, which focuses on sound financial planning; and How to Build Your Home, which offers guidance on smart and viable housing programme's benefits extend beyond education, offering tangible solutions that meet real-life needs. It offers full coverage of wedding costs for both men and women when the ceremony is hosted in CDA-approved venues. It also facilitates priority access to ready-to-move-in housing through easy instalment payment schemes. Among other benefits are exclusive discounts on medical services, wedding essentials, jewellery, magazines, and travel. Another advantage comes in the form of a loyalty card under the Esaad programme that offers various community perks. There is also a remote work provision for newlywed female employees following maternity of the Community Development Authority in Dubai, Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, emphasised that the Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum Family Program reflects the vision of the leadership in placing family at the core of sustainable development. She noted that strengthening Emirati families is fundamental to building a cohesive and happy stated, 'The programme's achievements are a source of pride. True investment starts within the Emirati household. Seeing young families embark on a key phase of life and welcoming new members into their families under the umbrella of this initiative proves that we are creating not just statistics, but real stories of secure and thriving beginnings.'From awareness to empowerment, and from financial to housing support, we are offering a complete ecosystem that supports families at every stage of their journey. This aligns with the goals of the Dubai Social Agenda 33 and reinforces the city's role as an ideal environment for starting a family and building a future.'Thanking Her Highness Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, wife of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, for her generous patronage of the initiative, Buhumaid said, 'Dubai Weddings is more than just a scheme providing assistance – it is a gesture rooted in compassion and community spirit.'Through this initiative, Her Highness Sheikha Hind has touched the lives of countless youths, helping them start on the path of family with confidence and clarity. This initiative brought the true essence of social responsibility to life,' she said, reaffirming the Authority's commitment to continuously enhancing the programme through strategic partnerships, positioning it as a leading model for family empowerment and sustainable social development.
Business Recorder
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Dubai attracts 9.88mn international tourists in first half of 2025
Dubai welcomes 9.88 million overnight visitors from January-June 2025 - an increase of 6% compared to the same period in 2024, according to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. 22% of the visitors came from Western Europe, followed by 15% from South Asia, 15% CIS and Eastern Europe, and another 11% from the MENA region. North East and South East Asia (9 per cent), the Americas (7 per cent), Africa (4 per cent) and Australasia (2 per cent) rounded up the primary source markets. 'Dubai continues to set new records in international visitation, reinforcing the strategic vision of Mohammed bin Rashid to make the city a major global business and tourism destination,' 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 announced in a post on X. Dubai sets new record of 18.72 mn international visitors in 2024 Hotel average occupancy reached 80.6 percent, up from 78.7 percent in the first half of 2024. This development builds on Dubai's accelerated growth in the tourism sector. In 2024, the city set a new record for international tourism in 2024, welcoming 18.72 million overnight visitors overall – marking a 9 per cent YoY increase, according to the Government of Dubai Media Office. The UAE's tax-friendly policies, strategic location, ease of doing business and visa access are facilitating this growth, as Dubai remains poised to welcome record tourists, as well as attracting High Net Worth Individuals (HNWIs) to the UAE.
Hi Dubai
4 days ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Dubai Welcomes 9.88 Million Visitors in H1 2025, Recording 6% Year-on-Year Growth
Dubai received 9.88 million international visitors in the first half of 2025, marking a 6% year-on-year increase, according to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). The growth highlights the emirate's strong global appeal and the success of public-private partnerships and targeted marketing campaigns. H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum praised the achievement as a reflection of Dubai's strategic vision to become a world-leading destination for tourism, trade, and innovation. Western Europe remained the top source market, accounting for 22% of visitors, followed by South Asia, the CIS and Eastern Europe, and the GCC. The hotel sector also posted strong results, with an 80.6% average occupancy rate and over 22 million occupied room nights. Culinary tourism played a key role, bolstered by Dubai's recognition in the MICHELIN Guide and The World's 50 Best Restaurants, with Trèsind Studio ranked No.27 globally and FZN earning three MICHELIN stars. Dubai was also named the world's best city for solo female travellers and the first Certified Autism Destination™ in the Eastern Hemisphere, affirming its commitment to inclusive and accessible tourism. As DET continues to drive the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, the city's evolving infrastructure, new hotel openings, global campaigns, and business events position it as a global benchmark for travel, hospitality, and urban excellence. News Source: Emirates News Agency
