Dubai, UAE – March 13, 2025 – Dubai is set to transform its urban landscape with the announcement of over 17,000 affordable housing units, alongside initiatives to bolster independent legal consultancy and enhance Arabic education. The plans were approved during a recent Executive Council meeting chaired by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council.
Affordable Housing for a Growing City
As part of Dubai’s Affordable Housing Policy and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, the Executive Council has allocated 1.46 million square meters of land to develop 17,080 residential units. These homes, designed to cater to skilled professionals and residents of varying income levels, will offer high-quality living spaces at affordable rental rates. The first phase will focus on six key areas: Al Mueisim 1, Al Twar 1, Al Qusais Industrial 5, and Al Leyan 1.
Sheikh Hamdan emphasized Dubai’s commitment to fostering inclusive communities, stating, “Our vision is to empower individuals and families by providing diverse housing options. This initiative ensures Dubai remains a global hub for talent and innovation, welcoming everyone to contribute to our vibrant society.”
The project, overseen by the Supreme Committee for Urban Planning, will involve collaboration with entities such as the Land Department, Dubai Municipality, and the Roads and Transport Authority to create well-connected neighborhoods with access to essential services.
Strengthening Arabic Education
The Executive Council also greenlit a new education strategy under the Dubai Education Strategy 2033, aimed at elevating Arabic language and Islamic studies in private schools. The initiative focuses on modernizing curricula, enhancing teaching methods, and fostering collaboration between educators, parents, and students to instill cultural and national values from an early age.
Key components include the Dubai Protocol for Curriculum Enhancement and the Emirati Teacher Recruitment and Training Programme, which aim to increase the number of Emirati educators and equip students with critical thinking and research skills. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) will lead the implementation in partnership with private schools.
Sheikh Hamdan noted, “Our national identity is at the heart of our progress. By strengthening Arabic and Islamic education, we are preparing future generations to carry forward our values with pride and confidence.”
Empowering Legal Professionals
In a move to support entrepreneurship and flexible work models, Sheikh Hamdan approved the Independent Legal Consultant Project. This initiative introduces a licensing model that allows Emiratis to offer legal consultancy services in fields like real estate and personal status law without needing a physical office. The pilot phase targets professionals with at least two years of legal experience, who must complete a training program and pass an evaluation.
“This project reflects Dubai’s dynamic approach to evolving professions,” Sheikh Hamdan said. “It opens doors for Emiratis to explore legal consultancy, promoting innovation and work-life balance.”
The Legal Affairs Department will oversee the one-year pilot, assessing its impact on the legal sector and opportunities for remote work.
A Vision for Dubai’s Future
These initiatives align with Dubai’s broader goal of sustainable growth and global leadership, as outlined by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. By investing in housing, education, and professional opportunities, Dubai continues to position itself as a city that embraces diversity and fosters prosperity.
The Executive Council meeting, held at Emirates Towers, was attended by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, underscoring the leadership’s commitment to these transformative projects.
