Gov’t to Create Priority Register for Vulnerable Families in Social Housing, Says Housing Minister

The government has begun compiling a special register aimed at prioritising the poorest and most vulnerable families in the allocation of social housing, according to Housing Minister Dr Abdulla Muthalib.

The minister made the statement during a ceremony held to inaugurate the construction of 1,190 housing units under the Bank of Maldives Affordable Housing Project in Hulhumalé Phase II. The initiative forms part of the government’s wider Housing for All policy, under which a total of 3,260 housing units are being developed with the support of the Bank of Maldives.

Muthalib said the policy reflects a broader approach to addressing housing needs, recognising that different segments of society require different solutions. These include bank-financed options for first-time buyers as well as rent-to-own schemes designed for low-income families through ongoing projects.

He noted that housing remains a sensitive issue shaped by the lived experiences of many families facing difficult conditions. Based on past housing schemes, the minister said those most in need have often been left out due to limited awareness, lack of documentation, or insufficient access to assistance, resulting in their exclusion from the system.

The planned priority register is intended to identify such households, assess their circumstances, and ensure they are not overlooked in future allocations. Administrative work on establishing the register has already commenced.

Muthalib reiterated that families without any form of housing remain the government’s top priority. He also stated that all ongoing housing projects are expected to be completed within the current five-year term.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has pledged to ensure housing for every Maldivian above the age of 18 during this term, as part of the administration’s broader housing policy.