New ‘Maskani’ Initiative to Advance Inclusive Housing in Dubai
Dubai’s new Maskani Initiative integrates smart and assistive technologies to enhance independent living for people with disabilities and disorders.
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment has launched the Maskani Initiative, a comprehensive programme aimed at making housing in Dubai more inclusive and accessible for people with disabilities and disorders. The launch was announced during the AccessAbilities Expo 2025.
At the centre of Maskani is a Housing Preparation Guide, created to support people of determination in living independently. The guide outlines inclusive housing standards that address human, psychological, and functional needs, aligning with both local and international accessibility frameworks. It provides detailed guidelines for engineers and designers to create homes that are safe, functional, and adaptable for all residents.
In addition to structural design, the initiative promotes the use of smart and assistive technologies to foster sustainable, human-centred environments. The guide features practical design recommendations tailored to a wide range of disabilities — including physical, visual, auditory, and intellectual impairments — as well as conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and mental health challenges.
