Government Plans New Ministry Headquarters to Address Office Space Shortage

The government has announced plans to construct a dedicated building to house the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, in a move aimed at addressing the longstanding shortage of government office space.

The decision follows a fire in December 2024 that forced the Ministry’s temporary relocation to the Dharubaaruge Convention Centre in the capital, Malé.

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Minister Abdulla Muththalib confirmed that the project is currently in the planning phase, with funding being allocated for its development. A 30,000-square-foot plot of land has been designated for the new headquarters by Mohamed Muizzu.

The need for a permanent facility has increased following the expansion of the Ministry’s mandate to include public works, alongside a workforce exceeding 600 employees. The shortage of adequate office space has been identified as a persistent issue affecting government operations.

Efforts are also underway to develop additional office infrastructure in Malé to ease pressure across state institutions. The government’s broader strategy includes reducing reliance on costly private rentals by investing in purpose-built facilities.

As part of this approach, a 14-storey office building is planned in Hulhumalé, although financial uncertainties have delayed the awarding of the contract. Plans have also been outlined for the future redevelopment of the Dharubaaruge site.

The December 2024 fire destroyed three government ministry buildings and damaged parts of the Malé City Council, worsening an already strained situation. The shortage had been further compounded by the demolition of older government buildings that previously accommodated multiple state offices, leading to increased reliance on leased private spaces.

A recent development in Hulhumalé, where a new government complex now houses three ministries, is seen as a model for future projects, including the planned headquarters for the Infrastructure Ministry.