On May 9, 2025, Abu Dhabi unveiled a transformative housing initiative, approving AED82.7 billion (approximately $22.5 billion) for the development of 14 integrated housing projects across the emirate. This ambitious plan, spearheaded by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, aims to bolster family stability and enhance social welfare for Emirati citizens. The National+8Arabian Business+8Adha+8
Key Highlights of the Housing Initiative
- Scope of Development: The projects will deliver 35,000 new housing benefits over the next five years, including 26,000 residential units for Abu Dhabi citizens, along with approximately 9,000 residential land plots.
- Financial Flexibility: To ease the financial burden on citizens, several enhancements to the housing loans ecosystem have been introduced:
- A community support subsidy of AED250,000 ($68,000) will be automatically and retroactively deducted from the total loan amount for all housing loans totaling AED1.75 million ($476,500), as per the 2023 housing benefits policy.
- Extension of loan repayment periods to up to 30 years, helping to reduce monthly installment amounts.
- Monthly repayment values will now be adjusted based on the beneficiary’s monthly income, accommodating any changes in financial circumstances after the loan is issued.
- Support for Diverse Age Groups:
- Introduction of a deferred-payment home purchase loan for low-income citizens aged 25 to 45, enabling them to choose from a wider range of available housing options.
- Citizens above the age of 45 will be eligible for ready-built home grants from the capital projects.
- Facilitating Community Cohesion: Citizens will be exempt from fees related to mutually agreed land plot swaps, simplifying the exchange process and supporting stronger community and family bonds.
Leadership’s Commitment
Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Abu Dhabi Housing Authority, expressed profound gratitude to the leadership for their unwavering commitment to the well-being of Emirati citizens. He emphasized that these initiatives are pivotal in strengthening family stability and social cohesion through the provision of high-quality housing. Khaleej Times+3Adha+3Arabian Business+3
Hamad Hareb Al Muhairi, Director-General of Abu Dhabi Housing Authority, also acknowledged the lasting positive impact these directives will have on the lives of Emirati families, aligning with the broader vision of sustainable urban development in Abu Dhabi. Gulf News+2Khaleej Times+2Adha+2
This comprehensive housing strategy reflects Abu Dhabi’s dedication to creating integrated communities that cater to the diverse needs of its citizens, fostering an environment of growth, stability, and prosperity.