Government Launches Major Housing Initiative Covering 57 Islands

The Ministry of Finance has announced a nationwide housing development plan to construct 12,040 housing units across 57 islands, marking one of the largest initiatives of its kind undertaken in the Maldives.

Initiated at the request of the Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure, the project will be carried out on a design-and-build basis. The Ministry has now issued official requirements for interested parties, commencing the contractor selection process.

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The distribution of housing units will vary across the islands, with fewer than 100 units planned in 20 islands, 100 units in 12 islands, 150 units in two islands, 200 units in nine islands, and more than 200 units in 14 islands.

The procurement process will follow International Competitive Bidding (ICB) procedures in accordance with national financial regulations. Prequalification documents will outline all relevant technical specifications, evaluation criteria, and financing arrangements.

Bid openings are scheduled to take place from 11 to 15 May, beginning daily at 10 a.m., as stated in notices published in the official Gazette. These notices also provide detailed submission guidelines and proposal requirements.

This large-scale housing project forms a key part of the government’s wider strategy to enhance living conditions nationwide. In line with this, the 2025 national budget allocates MVR 2.8 billion to the housing sector, of which MVR 1.8 billion is designated for social housing.

The government has identified the programme as a cornerstone of its commitment to ensuring access to affordable and adequate housing for all citizens.