Abu Dhabi marriage loans available to Emiratis from September

Couples will be able to apply for loans of up to Dh150,000 as part of wider Emirati Family Growth Programme

Couples can apply if the groom is 21 or older and the bride no younger than 18. Getty Images

Details have emerged of a loan scheme to help encourage young Emiratis to marry in Abu Dhabi.

Under the Marriage Loan Initiative, UAE citizens in the capital will be eligible to apply for an interest-free loan of up to Dh150,000 ($40,838).

The scheme is part of the Emirati Family Growth Programme launched by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, this month.

Emiratis can apply providing they earn less than Dh60,000, Abu Dhabi Media Office reported.

Couples who apply must also consist of a groom who is 21 or older and a bride who is no younger than 18.

"This initiative underscores the Abu Dhabi Government's dedication to strengthening family cohesion and social bonds, fostering population growth among citizens and facilitating the formation of stable families," said Abdulla Al Ameri, director general of the Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority.

"The initiative being launched by the Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority will enable soon-to-be-married individuals to embark on a path towards a sustainable family future."

Applications can be made from September when couples can start applying if they are within six months of getting married.