The Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, on Sunday, launched the first phase of the "Cities of Giving" initiative, which includes nine residences in Al Quoz 2 area in Dubai at a cost of AED9 million.

Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Minister of Infrastructure Development and Chairman of the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, stressed that "Cities of Giving" is one of the most important initiatives launched by the Programme in the "Year of Giving." It promotes sustainability, and contributes to achieving social solidarity and strengthening cohesiveness and stability for families. He was speaking during a ceremony held for the signing of the agreement, which deals with the funding and execution of the project.

He pointed out that the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme is reaping the fruits of its efforts through the investment opportunities it offered in the field of giving to private sector institutions and businessmen. This has contributed to achieving the UAE Vision of strengthening social solidarity and promoting humanitarian initiatives in the "Year of Giving," he added.

He further commended Indian businessman Rajen Kilachand for being the first contributor to "Cities of Giving" and for his effective participation in achieving the aspirations of the UAE government in the "Year of Giving." He also praised his work in enhancing the role of businessmen and the private sector institutions in charity work and social participation in the UAE.

The signing ceremony also included a field visit for Dr. Al Nuaimi and a number of accompanying officials to one of the models of the residential units. They learnt the technical details of the model that has been designed, considering the demands of a family and other residential and social needs.

The first phase of the project involves the completion of nine 3,500-square-metre residences within 16 months. The two-storey residences feature four bedrooms, taking into account the architectural diversity in the designs of the residential units that are built in four styles Mediterranean, modern, Andalusian and Islamic.