Latest news with #SheikhZayedHousingProgramme
Gulf Today
2 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
UAE records remarkable housing achievements with support exceeding Dhs63 billion
The UAE continues to make remarkable accomplishments in the federal housing sector, enhancing its leadership in urban development and social stability, and strengthening its position among the best countries in the world in terms of quality of life. In H1 2025, the UAE Cabinet approved housing decisions for over 1,838 citizens, totalling Dhs1.2 billion as part of the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, which has provided assistance amounting to Dhs63 billion since its establishment to date. More than 93,000 Emirati citizens have benefited from this initiative so far, reflecting the country's commitment to empowering Emirati families and providing suitable housing as one of the key pillars of societal stability. In recent years, the programme has witnessed a series of strategic developments that have enhanced the effectiveness of the housing system, accelerated the process of obtaining housing support, and increased customer satisfaction. Additionally, there has been an expansion in partnerships with the banking sector and financial institutions, in line with the country's focus on financial sustainability and innovation in service delivery. Between 2021 and 2024, the programme achieved remarkable results in terms of performance indicators. The time required to obtain a housing support decision was reduced by more than 50%. The percentage of citizens owning homes increased to 91% - a 17% increase compared to 2017, while private sector funding accounted for 76% of the total, confirming the effectiveness of the adopted financial policies. Customer satisfaction surveys also showed that happiness levels regarding housing services doubled today—an increase of 100% compared to 2021—indicating a significant improvement in the efficiency of the government service system. In this context, the UAE Cabinet has approved a new financing policy for the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme extending until 2041. The policy aims to issue 40,000 housing support decisions, divided into four phases. The first phase includes the issuance of 13,000 decisions at an estimated cost of Dhs11.5 billion, effectively doubling the number of annual decisions compared to previous years. This comes as part of the country's efforts to enhance resource sustainability and improve the efficiency of public spending. The new policy is based on an integrated model between the federal government and national banks, contributing to reducing the financial burden on the public treasury while providing flexible financing alternatives for citizens. Additionally, the Ministry launched several regulatory initiatives in cooperation with the Central Bank of the UAE to address challenges associated with implementing the new policy. These include the 'Flexible Loan,' which allows citizens to obtain housing finance that aligns with their financial capabilities, with the possibility of benefiting from the finance gap for up to four years. Another initiative is the 'Reuse of Housing Assistance Value,' enabling citizens to re-utilise the assistance in case their living conditions change. Moreover, the policy includes an 'Exemption of Retirement Contributions from Total Salary,' which enhances the process of assessing monthly income and expands opportunities for obtaining housing support. As part of the government's efforts to streamline procedures, the Ministry launched the 'Manzili' bundle, which was recognised in the Zero Bureaucracy Awards as the Best Team across the UAE Government in the 'Impact on People's Lives' category. The package contributed to reducing the number of entities a customer must deal with from 11 to just one, the number of procedures from 14 to three, and the required documents from 10 to just one. This was made possible through integration and coordination with 28 partner entities, resulting in saving over 9 million working hours, reducing fuel consumption by 55,000 liters, and cutting carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 586,000 kilograms—based on calculations for an estimated 5,000 users annually. The Ministry also launched the national platform 'Darak' as a unified window for offering advisory services and construction packages to citizens. This was done in collaboration with the Ministry of Possibilities, the Social Solidarity Fund for Ministry of Interior employees, and local housing programmes. In a new achievement that reflects the UAE's global standing in the housing sector, the country won the presidency of the General Assembly of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and secured membership in its Executive Board. This recognition strengthens the UAE's role in supporting international efforts in housing and sustainable urban planning. UN-Habitat is an international UN agency headquartered in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. It works towards a better urban future, with a mission to ensure adequate shelter for all by promoting the sustainable development of human settlements in social and environmental dimensions. UN-Habitat includes a membership of 193 countries from around the world. Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, said, 'Thanks to the directives of the UAE's wise leadership, the country continues to achieve significant milestones in the housing sector. The housing support decisions, during the first half of 2025, reflect the country's unwavering commitment to providing suitable housing for citizens, as it represents a fundamental pillar in the path of comprehensive development.' He added, 'These remarkable achievements are the result of a strategic vision in which government efforts are integrated with the banking sector under the new funding policy, aimed at empowering Emirati families, enhancing quality of life, and ensuring resource sustainability.' He pointed out that the Ministry, in the coming phase, aims to develop innovative housing projects that align with future needs, reinforce principles of sound financial management, and redefine traditional concepts of homeownership—contributing to improved quality of life, family stability, and the social and economic growth of the nation. For his part, Eng. Mohamed Al Mansouri, Director-General of Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, emphasised that these achievements reflect the forward-looking vision of the wise leadership, which places people at the heart of development plans. He noted that the programme is a fundamental pillar in empowering and stabilising Emirati families. He said, 'We continue working to develop a flexible and innovative federal housing system that integrates government and private sector efforts, aligns with citizens' aspirations, and enhances the UAE's global competitiveness in quality of life and urban development indicators.' WAM
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
UAE records remarkable housing achievements with support exceeding $13.62bln
ABU DHABI - The UAE continues to make remarkable accomplishments in the federal housing sector, enhancing its leadership in urban development and social stability, and strengthening its position among the best countries in the world in terms of quality of life. In H1 2025, the UAE Cabinet approved housing decisions for over 1,838 citizens, totalling AED1.2 billion as part of the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, which has provided assistance amounting to AED50 billion since its establishment to date. More than 93,000 Emirati citizens have benefited from this initiative so far, reflecting the country's commitment to empowering Emirati families and providing suitable housing as one of the key pillars of societal stability. In recent years, the programme has witnessed a series of strategic developments that have enhanced the effectiveness of the housing system, accelerated the process of obtaining housing support, and increased customer satisfaction. Additionally, there has been an expansion in partnerships with the banking sector and financial institutions, in line with the country's focus on financial sustainability and innovation in service delivery. Between 2021 and 2024, the programme achieved remarkable results in terms of performance indicators. The time required to obtain a housing support decision was reduced by more than 50%. The percentage of citizens owning homes increased to 91% - a 17% increase compared to 2017, while private sector funding accounted for 76% of the total, confirming the effectiveness of the adopted financial policies. Customer satisfaction surveys also showed that happiness levels regarding housing services doubled today—an increase of 100% compared to 2021—indicating a significant improvement in the efficiency of the government service system. In this context, the UAE Cabinet has approved a new financing policy for the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme extending until 2041. The policy aims to issue 40,000 housing support decisions, divided into four phases. The first phase includes the issuance of 13,000 decisions at an estimated cost of AED11.5 billion, effectively doubling the number of annual decisions compared to previous years. This comes as part of the country's efforts to enhance resource sustainability and improve the efficiency of public spending. The new policy is based on an integrated model between the federal government and national banks, contributing to reducing the financial burden on the public treasury while providing flexible financing alternatives for citizens. Additionally, the Ministry launched several regulatory initiatives in cooperation with the Central Bank of the UAE to address challenges associated with implementing the new policy. These include the 'Flexible Loan,' which allows citizens to obtain housing finance that aligns with their financial capabilities, with the possibility of benefiting from the finance gap for up to four years. Another initiative is the 'Reuse of Housing Assistance Value,' enabling citizens to re-utilise the assistance in case their living conditions change. Moreover, the policy includes an 'Exemption of Retirement Contributions from Total Salary,' which enhances the process of assessing monthly income and expands opportunities for obtaining housing support. As part of the government's efforts to streamline procedures, the Ministry launched the 'Manzili' bundle, which was recognised in the Zero Bureaucracy Awards as the Best Team across the UAE Government in the 'Impact on People's Lives' category. The package contributed to reducing the number of entities a customer must deal with from 11 to just one, the number of procedures from 14 to three, and the required documents from 10 to just one. This was made possible through integration and coordination with 28 partner entities, resulting in saving over 9 million working hours, reducing fuel consumption by 55,000 liters, and cutting carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 586,000 kilograms—based on calculations for an estimated 5,000 users annually. The Ministry also launched the national platform 'Darak' as a unified window for offering advisory services and construction packages to citizens. This was done in collaboration with the Ministry of Possibilities, the Social Solidarity Fund for Ministry of Interior employees, and local housing programmes. In a new achievement that reflects the UAE's global standing in the housing sector, the country won the presidency of the General Assembly of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and secured membership in its Executive Board. This recognition strengthens the UAE's role in supporting international efforts in housing and sustainable urban planning. UN-Habitat is an international UN agency headquartered in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. It works towards a better urban future, with a mission to ensure adequate shelter for all by promoting the sustainable development of human settlements in social and environmental dimensions. UN-Habitat includes a membership of 193 countries from around the world. Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, said, 'Thanks to the directives of the UAE's wise leadership, the country continues to achieve significant milestones in the housing sector. The housing support decisions, during the first half of 2025, reflect the country's unwavering commitment to providing suitable housing for citizens, as it represents a fundamental pillar in the path of comprehensive development.' He added, 'These remarkable achievements are the result of a strategic vision in which government efforts are integrated with the banking sector under the new funding policy, aimed at empowering Emirati families, enhancing quality of life, and ensuring resource sustainability.' He pointed out that the Ministry, in the coming phase, aims to develop innovative housing projects that align with future needs, reinforce principles of sound financial management, and redefine traditional concepts of homeownership—contributing to improved quality of life, family stability, and the social and economic growth of the nation. For his part, Eng. Mohamed Al Mansouri, Director-General of Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, emphasised that these achievements reflect the forward-looking vision of the wise leadership, which places people at the heart of development plans. He noted that the programme is a fundamental pillar in empowering and stabilising Emirati families. He said, 'We continue working to develop a flexible and innovative federal housing system that integrates government and private sector efforts, aligns with citizens' aspirations, and enhances the UAE's global competitiveness in quality of life and urban development indicators.'
Hi Dubai
2 days ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE Approves AED1.2 Billion in Housing Support as Part of Bold National Housing Push
The UAE has approved AED1.2 billion in housing support for 1,838 citizens in the first half of 2025, reaffirming its commitment to improving quality of life and strengthening social stability through the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme. Since its inception, the programme has delivered AED50 billion in housing support, benefiting more than 93,000 Emiratis. The initiative is part of the country's long-term strategy to empower families and drive sustainable urban development. The UAE Cabinet has also rolled out a new financing policy for the programme extending to 2041. The plan targets 40,000 housing support decisions in four phases, with 13,000 in the first phase alone at an estimated AED11.5 billion. The new model integrates federal funding with support from national banks, easing the financial load on the treasury while offering more flexible financing options for citizens. Between 2021 and 2024, the programme recorded a 50% cut in processing time for support decisions and increased homeownership among Emiratis to 91% — a 17% rise since 2017. Private sector contributions now account for 76% of housing funding. Complementary initiatives such as the 'Flexible Loan' and 'Reuse of Housing Assistance Value' offer tailored financial solutions, while the award-winning 'Manzili' bundle has drastically reduced red tape, saving millions of work hours and slashing emissions. In a further show of global leadership, the UAE has been elected President of the UN-Habitat General Assembly and secured a seat on its Executive Board, strengthening its voice in international housing and urban development efforts. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Khaleej Times
4 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE ranks 5th globally in competitiveness; approves Dh1.25 billion for housing
The UAE's rise to 5th place globally in the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking. The country moved up two spots from last year, ranking ahead of the US, Sweden, and Germany. UAE ranked first in the absence of bureaucracy, second in policy adaptability, and fourth in government efficiency. The ranking reflects performance in areas such as economic strength, business environment, infrastructure, and government services. This was announced during the UAE Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, which was chaired by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. The meeting, held at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, reviewed national progress and approved several initiatives. The session also covered housing support, trade achievements, digital services, environmental plans, and international agreements. Sheikh Mohammed said, "Fourteen years ago, we established a competitiveness centre, uniting the efforts of key national entities. These efforts have elevated the UAE's ranking from 28th globally in 2009 to being among the top five globally in competitiveness. This achievement is a testament to years of consistent effort." Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. The Cabinet also approved Dh1.25 billion in housing support for 1,838 citizens in the first half of 2025 under the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme. The move aims to support stable living conditions for Emirati families across the country. Foreign trade was another major focus. The Cabinet reviewed the signing of 27 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) with countries around the world. Eight of these agreements are already active. These deals helped the UAE's total trade reach Dh5.23 trillion in 2024. Non-oil exports grew to Dh440 billion, while foreign direct investment reached Dh113 billion. To support the maritime sector, the Cabinet approved the establishment of a National Maritime Navigation Center under the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. The centre will manage vessel tracking, safety systems, and environmental protection efforts. On the digital front, the UAE's digital identity system has now surpassed 11 million registered users, enabling over 2.6 billion transactions across 130 government and private entities. Efforts to combat financial crime were also discussed. The Cabinet approved the restructuring of the High Committee on Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing, under the leadership of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Environmental and heritage efforts were included in the agenda. The UAE added nine new biodiversity hotspots, expanded land and marine protected areas, and launched a plan to plant 100 million mangrove trees by 2030. A new federal law to preserve cultural heritage was also approved. The Cabinet also reviewed achievements from the latest 'Make it in the Emirates' industrial platform, which attracted over 122,000 visitors and facilitated AED 168 billion in procurement opportunities. It also signed Dh11 billion in industrial agreements and introduced a new recognition category for traditional crafts. Internationally, the Cabinet approved 13 agreements and 36 more under negotiation, covering areas like trade, visas, energy, and investment. New UAE embassies will open in Togo, Gabon, Cameroon, and Tajikistan, along with a consulate in Miami, USA.
Malaysia Sun
31-05-2025
- Politics
- Malaysia Sun
UAE wins presidency of General Assembly of UN-Habitat
Abu Dhabi [UAE], May 31 (ANI/WAM): The UAE has achieved a new diplomatic milestone by winning, for the first time, the presidency of the General Assembly of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and securing membership in its Executive Board. This well-deserved and unprecedented achievement was shared with the Kingdom of Malaysia, following a highly competitive election during the Assembly meetings being held in Nairobi, Kenya. This international recognition reaffirms the UAE's leading role in supporting sustainable urban development, housing initiatives, and advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN-Habitat General Assembly, composed of 193 member states, is the programme's highest decision-making body. It is responsible for guiding global policies aimed at improving living conditions in cities and enhancing the quality of life in urban communities. On this occasion, Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, expressed his pride and honour in this international achievement, which adds to the UAE's distinguished record of successes. He emphasised that the UAE's election as President of the UN-Habitat General Assembly is a recognition of its significant efforts, guided by the vision of its wise leadership, in establishing the nation as a comprehensive model for adequate housing and sustainable urban environments. Al Mazrouei said, 'This remarkable achievement reflects the vision and directives of the UAE's wise leadership, which has made housing and urban development a strategic priority, recognising it as a fundamental pillar for social stability and quality of life. The leadership has directed efforts toward providing an integrated housing environment that ensures well-being and dignity for all citizens and residents. It has also launched numerous national initiatives and programs that have contributed to developing a modern housing system and offering innovative and sustainable solutions to meet the needs of various segments of society.' He added, 'The Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme stands as a prominent example of this integrated national vision. Since its establishment in 1999, the programme has successfully enhanced family stability, met the demand for government housing, and provided decent housing for Emirati citizens. Through this victory, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to continue contributing to global housing and urban planning efforts. The country will work to deepen cooperation with all 193 member states of the General Assembly, with the goal of developing sustainable, inclusive cities that are capable of meeting future challenges.' He affirmed that the UAE will leverage this leadership role to support the implementation of Goal 11 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which focuses on 'making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.' He also pointed out that the joint presidency with Malaysia and membership in the UN-Habitat Executive Board will open new avenues for strengthening dialogue among member states and for exchanging the best international experiences and practices. He stressed that the UAE will lead joint efforts to promote innovation in urban housing and to present pioneering models for addressing the challenges of rapid urban growth and climate change. The Minister continued, 'We will continue working with member states, civil society organisations, and the private sector to develop clear visions and innovative action plans that meet the needs of global communities and provide adequate and safe housing for all people. We consider this responsibility a great honour and an opportunity to further enhance the UAE's international record.' He added, 'We will work hand in hand with all international partners to embed the principles of sustainable urban development and lead global efforts toward urban transformation, aiming to create a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable living environment for all.' For his part, Eng Mohamed Al Mansouri, Director-General of Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, said, 'This achievement is a true reflection of the UAE's dedicated efforts in developing a sustainable and smart urban housing system. The Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme remains one of the most vital national pillars that has strengthened the UAE's global standing in this field by offering innovative housing solutions that meet the highest standards of quality and environmental and social sustainability.' Al Mansouri also extended his appreciation to the national team from the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy in Nairobi, for their outstanding efforts over the past three and a half years, which began with the candidacy file and culminated in successfully securing international support for key UN-Habitat leadership positions. He added, 'We are fully geared to enhance cooperation with member states and share the UAE's pioneering experience in building integrated urban communities characterised by diversity and innovation, in line with our leadership's vision for achieving sustainable development.' He further noted that the UAE's presidency of the UN-Habitat General Assembly will bolster its status as an influential international partner in shaping future urban policies and support the country's drive to maintain momentum in sustainable development efforts both regionally and globally. (ANI/WAM)
