Dubai approves AED18.3 billion plan creating 15,000 jobs, 800 parks, and 120,000 school seats for residents

Dubai’s AED18.3 billion transformation creates 15,000 jobs, 800 parks, and 120,000 school seats/Image: WAM

Dubai has embarked on a sweeping transformation, charting a course that intertwines urban sophistication with wellbeing, sustainability, and human capital development. Under the stewardship of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the emirate has approved a series of initiatives designed to enhance quality of life, strengthen infrastructure, and secure its position as a global leader in aviation, education, sports, finance, and healthcare.

During the UAE Annual Government Meetings 2025, the Executive Council of Dubai, chaired by Sheikh Hamdan, endorsed the Public Parks and Greenery Strategy, allocating AED18.3 billion to over 800 projects. This ambitious programme includes:

The strategy targets 95 million annual park visits by 2040, triples the number of trees, provides 187 square kilometres of green areas (11 sq m per person), and commits to 100% recycled water for irrigation. Urban design will ensure that 80% of residents live within a five-minute walk of a neighbourhood park and a ten-minute cycle ride of a district park, promoting physical activity and community engagement.

Dubai’s status as a global aviation hub will be reinforced through the Aviation Talent 33 initiative, which seeks to develop future-ready skills and technological leadership across Dubai’s airports, including Al Maktoum International Airport. Key components include:

This initiative aligns with the wider goal to double Dubai’s economy, attract AED650 billion in investment, and integrate 65,000 Emiratis into the private sector. Oversight will be provided by a dedicated steering committee of aviation sector representatives, ensuring alignment with policy and strategic priorities.

In line with the Dubai Education Strategy 2033, the Executive Council approved the Policy to Expand and Promote Affordable High-Quality Schools. This plan aims to:

The initiative underlines the emirate’s commitment to nurturing human capital and preparing the next generation for global competitiveness.

The Sports Sector Strategic Plan 2033, developed by the Dubai Sports Council, outlines Dubai’s ambition to become the world’s leading sports hub. The plan includes:

This strategy treats sport as both an industry and a vehicle for youth development, positioning Dubai as a centre for global sporting achievement.

To strengthen Dubai’s financial ecosystem, the Council approved the Establishment of the Financial Restructuring and Insolvency Court. Its purpose is to:

This initiative aims to solidify Dubai’s position among the world’s top three financial centres.

The Council also endorsed the expansion of Early Detection Healthcare Services for Emirati citizens. The project is designed to:

These measures aim to place Dubai among the world’s top ten cities for healthy life expectancy, emphasising preventative care as a cornerstone of societal wellbeing. Go to Source