UAE launches Dh1-billion 'Emirates Villages' project

The UAE has announced the launch of a Dh1-billion Emirates Villages project. It will develop Emirati villages from both an economic and touristic perspective.

This was announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on Twitter on Wednesday.

Sheikh Mohammed said that the first group of villages to be included in the programme will provide 500 economic projects for the youth.

The project outlines multiple developmental tracks, through which the Emirates Council for Balanced Development seeks to create a micro-economy in 10 villages; achieve greater involvement of local communities; enhance the involvement of the private sector; and advance the sustainable development model by enhancing cooperation between federal and local governments.

The project is aimed at creating economic and business opportunities to promote social stability and wellbeing.

Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Member of the Executive Council of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Emirates Council for Balanced Development, will lead the project.

The project was launched at the Government Annual Meetings.

The President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, tweeted that he attended a session discussing the future of education.

The sector remains "one of our key strategic priorities", the President said.

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