Works of housing for low-income nationals to begin in October

According to AbdulRahman Sifai, Director of the department, the project's works will begin in October and are expected to be completed by February 2008.

He noted that the project, the first of its kind in the emirate, is undertaken based upon instructions given by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, UAE Minister of Finance and Industry and Chairman of Dubai Municipality.

The project, he added, consists of 10 residential complexes with each of them comprising 42 apartments in the first phase. Seven buildings would be built in Al Muhaisina while the remaining three buildings would be constructed in Al Qouz.

"Our studies have pointed out that there are a considerable number of families that belong to the low income category in need of housing. We have conducted a survey among them to determine the type of housing they require and it was made clear to us that the best type would be apartment blocks. Initially, we are undertaking this project as an experiment which, if found successful, would be extended to other areas as well," said Mr. Sifai.

He added that all apartments in these buildings would consist of three or four bedrooms, servant room, and a store. Each complex would have a library and children's playground. To serve residents in both the areas, there will be a mosque, a commercial complex, and landscaping works.