Dubai developers offer free repairs and services for flood-damaged homes

Emaar and MAG say they will pay for repair work within their communities while others step forward with alternative accommodation, food and help for residents

Homes across Dubai have been hit by the flooding in recent days, including this home in the Green Community belonging to Gary Benjer. Antonie Robertson/The National

A number of property developers in Dubai have said they will repair flood-damaged homes in their communities at no cost to residents.

Emaar and Mag said on Friday they would be paying for necessary repairs at homes damaged in the floods that have brought the city to a standstill this week.

Emaar, Nakheel, Dubai Holding, Union Properties and Dubai Investments Park said they would provide the following, in collaboration with Dubai Land Department:

• Alternative housing for residents affected by the weather
• Distribution of food within affected communities
• Enhanced security to ensure the safety of all residents
• Assistance with returning to residential properties
• Monitoring and documenting damage caused
• Assistance in assessing potential risks to properties

“In response to the challenges posed by this adverse weather and heavy rains that Dubai has experienced in the past few days, I am pleased to announce that Emaar will undertake the repair of all properties within our communities that have been damaged by the recent rains at its own cost to ensure that our residents can return to their daily lives as swiftly and smoothly as possible,” said Mohamed Alabbar, chairman of Emaar Properties.

“The teams have been actively dealing with challenges, including clearing numerous water-clogging issues, and continue to work around the clock to provide solutions.

“Building on this dedicated effort, we are pleased to announce an initiative to repair all homes within our communities affected by the recent severe weather in Dubai, at no cost to residents,” Mr Alabbar said.

Experts told The National that the number of people in the UAE with home insurance cover is “shockingly low”, with fewer than 15 per cent of UAE residents insured.

MAG praised the resilience of residents, businesses and agencies in their response to the flooding.

“In light of the unprecedented weather conditions experienced in the UAE earlier this week, it is incumbent upon us to stand by our customers during these challenging times,” said Talal Moafaq Al Gaddah, chief executive of MAG lifestyle Development.

“The resilience demonstrated by our residents, coupled with the supportive measures enacted by the wise government, serves as inspiration for us to extend our assistance to those in need.”

A statement from MAG said: “The company will cover all the costs of necessary repairs for affected residents, across its residential developments”.