Dubai's 'Home First' initiative improves housing for Emiratis

Dubai Municipality has launched the ‘Home First’ initiative to improve housing for Emirati families. This program aligns with the ‘Year of Community’ and aims to enhance family stability and social cohesion through urban planning changes. The initiative updates the Dubai Building Code, allowing more flexibility in residential planning. Emirati homeowners can now build side family annexes and separate villas for sons, as well as expand their villas by 100% on the second floor. Additional changes include reduced setback requirements and the ability to construct townhouses next to each other. These updates aim to create adaptable housing that meets the needs of Emirati families while maintaining architectural standards.