Dubai-based billionaire and businessman Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor has announced a new initiative aimed at supporting young Emiratis as they take their first steps toward marriage and family life. Under the programme, eligible UAE youth will receive a Dh50,000 grant upon marriage, with the support doubling if a child is born within two years.
The initiative is designed to ease some of the financial pressures often associated with marriage and early parenthood, particularly at a time when rising living costs and lifestyle expectations can delay major life decisions. Al Habtoor said the programme reflects a belief that strong families are the cornerstone of a stable and cohesive society.
Marriage-related expenses – including housing, weddings and household setup – can be a major hurdle for young people. By offering direct financial assistance, the initiative aims to encourage Emirati youth to move forward with confidence, without postponing marriage due to cost concerns.
The second phase of the support, tied to the birth of a child within two years, is intended to reinforce the importance of family growth and long-term stability. Al Habtoor said the additional grant recognises the responsibilities that come with parenthood and highlights the role of families in shaping future generations.
The move aligns with broader national efforts in the UAE to support family formation, population sustainability and social cohesion. Authorities have previously introduced housing benefits, marriage funds and family-friendly policies to encourage young Emiratis to marry and start families.
Social commentators say private-sector initiatives like this complement government programmes by offering flexible, targeted support and helping normalise early planning for marriage and parenthood. They also send a broader cultural message that investing in families is an investment in the country’s future.
Al Habtoor has long been involved in philanthropic and social initiatives across education, healthcare and community development. This latest programme adds to those efforts, focusing specifically on youth empowerment and social stability.
For young Emiratis considering marriage, the initiative offers both practical financial relief and moral encouragement at a key life stage. Supporters say it reinforces the idea that family-building is not only a personal milestone but also a shared social priority.
As discussions around work-life balance, affordability and demographic change continue, initiatives such as this highlight how private individuals and institutions can play a role in shaping a supportive environment for future generations in the UAE.
