A new community development project is coming to Zanzibar as part of the Rashid Villages initiative launched by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. The announcement coincides with the 11th anniversary of the passing of his late brother, Sheikh Rashid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Sheikh Hamdan Announces Second Rashid Village In Zanzibar
Second Village Under Rashid Villages Initiative Launched in Zanzibar#UAE #Zanzibar@HamdanMohammed @DXBMediaOffice pic.twitter.com/93RV1SX7CB
— UAE Forsan (@UAE_Forsan) September 19, 2026
The Zanzibar project follows the first Rashid Village in Kenya, which was launched last year. The initiative aims to support families through housing, essential services and opportunities that can help them build more independent livelihoods.
Homes, Healthcare And Education Under One Roof
The new village is being planned as more than a housing project. Families selected to benefit will receive furnished homes, while the community will also provide access to education and healthcare.
The development will include facilities designed to support day-to-day life within the village. A mosque and retail spaces will form part of the community, with the latter also intended to encourage local business activity.
There will also be areas for sports and outdoor activities, along with programmes focused on skills development and small businesses. These elements are intended to give residents access to opportunities that extend beyond basic housing.
A Focus On Long-Term Independence
Sustainability is another part of the project. The village will use environmentally conscious infrastructure and renewable energy as it develops into a self-contained community.
The broader aim is to give beneficiary families the tools and support needed to become economically active rather than relying solely on assistance. Education, healthcare, training and business opportunities will therefore sit alongside housing as part of the model.
Sheikh Hamdan said the initiative was a continuation of his brother’s legacy of generosity and helping others. He also noted that the first Rashid Village in Kenya had marked the beginning of the programme before its expansion to Zanzibar.
Also Read: Sheikh Hamdan Makes Kenyan Child’s Dream Dubai Trip Come True After Viral Clip
How The Rashid Villages Programme Is Being Expanded
A dedicated Supervisory Committee oversees the initiative and monitors the development of its projects. The committee is chaired by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Alongside overseeing the Zanzibar project, the committee is following the progress of the Kenya village and studying
Cover Image Courtesy: Dubai Media Office/Website
FAQs
What is the Rashid Villages initiative?
A humanitarian programme launched by Sheikh Hamdan to honour Sheikh Rashid's legacy through sustainable community development.
What will the Rashid village in Zanzibar include?
Furnished homes, a mosque, retail outlets, education and healthcare services, and training programmes for self-sufficiency.