The Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority (SSA) has introduced a 'Marriage Loan' program, offering an interest-free loan of up to Dh150,000 to eligible newly married UAE Nationals. This facility is accessible to Emiratis who are employed and possess an Abu Dhabi family book.
Eligibility criteria for the loan include: the husband must be at least 21 years old and the wife must be at least 18 years old at the time of marriage. The husband must also hold a Family Book issued in Abu Dhabi, and the application must be submitted by the husband. Additionally, the husband's monthly employment income must be less than Dh60,000, and registration should be completed on the Medeem Digital Platform.
The SSA will begin accepting applications from early September 2024. This initiative is part of the Abu Dhabi Family Wellbeing Strategy and the Emirati Family Growth Programme, launched by the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi. It aims to support the Emirati Family Growth Programme's objective to improve the quality of life for families, youth, and parents.
Designed to promote marriage in line with the UAE's heritage and wedding traditions, the initiative seeks to establish strong, resilient, and cohesive families. Abdulla Al Ameri, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority, emphasized that this initiative reflects the Abu Dhabi Government's commitment to enhancing family cohesion and social bonds, promoting population growth among citizens, and facilitating the formation of stable families. These efforts are in line with SSA's strategic direction to bolster the stability of Emirati families and enhance their positive contribution to society.