Gov’t Announces New Housing Projects in Islands Outside Malé Region.

The Ministry of Housing, Land and Urban Development has announced plans to launch additional housing schemes in islands outside the Malé region, with preparations underway for rollout within the next month.

State Minister for Housing, Land and Urban Development Ahmed Nazim Mohamed said on PSM News’ Raajje Miadhu programme that the new housing projects are expected to be introduced within a month, as part of ongoing efforts to expand housing opportunities across the country.

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He said the planned developments will be implemented under two separate models. One will focus on affordable housing schemes aimed at providing low-cost housing, while the other will allow individuals to build homes on privately owned plots through financing arrangements with financial institutions.

According to the State Minister, the initiatives are intended to broaden access to housing options and allow citizens to apply for housing that suits different income levels and preferences.

He added that the projects are expected to support the government’s pledge to expand housing opportunities during the current term, with a focus on ensuring access for a larger number of citizens.

The government said the affordable housing component is also designed to support workers in the tourism sector by enabling them to live closer to their places of work and establish families in the islands.

It further stated that the broader aim of the initiative is to encourage settlement outside the Malé region and support the development of regional urban centres, thereby reducing pressure on the capital.

Currently, Ras Male’, Gulhifalhu, Giraavaru Falhu, and Hulhumalé Phases 2 and 3 are being developed to provide social housing for Malé residents.

At the onset of the Binveriyaa and Gedhoruveriyaa schemes, which allocated land and flats respectively from Hulhumalé phases and other developing areas such as Gulhifalhu and Giraavaru Falhu, sections of the public expressed concern, stating that the government was prioritising large-scale land allocation primarily for Malé residents. Following public feedback, the government also subsequently eased the residency requirements that initially defined eligibility for Malé-based housing allocations.

If housing projects are expanded across the country as planned, it could provide opportunities for individuals seeking improved housing options in the islands to access social housing outside the Malé region as well.