A total of 1,000 Emiratis have been granted housing loans valued at Dh1.6 billion, officials have announced. The loans represent the second installment of a scheme aimed at doubling the number of home loans available to nationals. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, ordered that the funds be distributed on Tuesday. The initiative was first announced under the direction of President Sheikh Khalifa last year and aims to improve living standards of UAE citizens. The scheme forms part of the work of the Ghadan 21, a wide-ranging investment and reform programme designed to broaden Abu Dhabi's economy. Prior to Eid Al Fitr, a total of 2,000 loans, valued at Dh3.4 billion, were awarded as part of the programme’s first installment. The UAE Government allocates land, free accommodation or a loan to eligible Emiratis who apply though the Housing Allocation Committee. Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, established in 1999, provides low-income Emiratis with interest-free loans that are repayable over a 25-year period. Priority is given to widows, senior Emiratis and people with disabilities. The scheme was introduced to ensure all Emiratis have access to safe and affordable housing and basic services.