Ministry of Construction, Housing, and Infrastructure has officially opened applications for the first housing scheme under the current administration’s ambitious “Housing for All” policy, marking a major step toward addressing the country’s longstanding housing shortage.
Announced in November last year, the scheme will see the allocation of 15,000 plots of land and 7,900 housing units. The entire application process will be conducted online through the government’s dedicated housing portal, ensuring accessibility and transparency.
Authorities have urged prospective applicants to carefully note the deadlines. Applications for land plots must be submitted by 4 March, while those seeking flats have until 17 April. The Ministry has published detailed regulations, eligibility requirements, and a marking system to ensure a fair and transparent allocation process.
The allocations are designed to cater to a wide range of applicants. In the Greater Male’ area and Rasmale’, 15,000 plots will be distributed, with 10,000 reserved for Male’ residents, 3,000 for non-residents, and 500 designated for predeceased heirs. An additional 1,500 plots will be allocated to individuals relocating from the city’s narrow lanes.
For flats, 4,000 units in the Male’ area will be allocated to city residents, 1,500 to applicants from other islands, and 2,400 to special priority categories. This year’s priority groups include taxi drivers and workers in the fishing and tourism sectors. Under the scheme, individuals who previously received one- or two-bedroom flats may apply for three-bedroom units, subject to conditions based on family size.
One of the main eligibility requirements for city applicants is proof of continuous residence in Male’ for 15 years up to 14 January 2026. Applicants must provide documentation for any breaks in residency due to special circumstances. The marking system will also prioritise income levels and current living conditions.
Speaking at the launch event, Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib said the government is determined to deliver on its commitments.
“Since 2008, no government has completed projects and handed over flats to the people. This government will change that,” he said, adding that the application process and handover of properties will be completed within the current presidential term.
The “Housing for All” initiative is backed by large-scale land reclamation projects, including developments in Hulhumale’, the extensive Rasmale’ project, and the Gulhi Falhu and Giraavaru Falhu initiatives. Together, these projects are creating over 1,600 hectares of new land to meet the country’s growing housing needs.
