Man Fined for Operating Labour Quarters Inside FDC Social Housing Flat

A man has been fined MVR 50,000 and given ten days to evict foreign workers after he was found to be operating labour quarters inside a social housing flat owned by Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation (FDC).

The individual, a resident of the flat, was using the unit to run labour quarters in violation of the housing agreement, according to FDC officials. The fine was imposed under the terms of the flat agreement, and authorities have warned that further action will be taken if the foreigners are not removed within the given timeframe.

The FDC flats are part of the 4,000‑unit social housing project allocated under former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s Gedhoruveriya Scheme. In addition to Aman’s fine, FDC has also penalised two other individuals MVR 8,000 each for dumping garbage at the towers.

Misuse of social housing flats has been an ongoing concern, particularly regarding high‑priced subletting. Some units were advertised for rent at significantly inflated rates even before the FDC flats were officially handed over.

In late December, the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) had ordered the removal of labour quarters operating inside Hulhumalé social housing flats, warning that agreements would be terminated if foreigners were not vacated before 3 January. No updates on this enforcement have been issued since.

Housing Minister Dr Abdullah Muthalib has previously indicated that the government may take measures to prevent the leasing of social housing flats to third parties, including amending the law if necessary.