Dubai's 'Home First' initiative enhances housing flexibility for Emiratis

Dubai Municipality has launched the 'Home First' initiative to improve housing options for Emirati families, with a focus on enhancing family stability and social cohesion.

The initiative, in line with the 'Year of Community', includes urban planning amendments aimed at fostering a higher quality of life.

It also supports the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme, which promotes family bonds and social values.

The initiative includes key updates to the Dubai Building Code to allow more flexibility in residential planning, allowing for additional living spaces such as side family annexes and separate villas for sons within family properties.

Families can also expand their villas with a 100 per cent extension on the second floor, while new setback regulations provide greater space and privacy.

The initiative also allows for townhouses to be built adjacent to each other, ensuring both efficiency and architectural harmony.

Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Acting Director-General of Dubai Municipality, highlighted that 'Home First' reinforces the city's commitment to sustainable urban planning, offering adaptable housing options to meet the evolving needs of Emirati families.

‘Home First’ introduces a comprehensive set of urban planning amendments and housing facilities to enhance the quality of life for Emirati families. pic.twitter.com/suEkjsDbJG

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) March 17, 2025