Investors and contractors are showing keen interest in the administration's new housing initiatives, setting the stage for what the Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure describes as a pivotal year in the nation's infrastructure development. The ministry is optimistic that multiple large-scale projects will break ground before year's end, reinforcing the administration's efforts to expand affordable housing.
Housing remains central to the administration's agenda. This year's national budget allocates USD 181.61 million for infrastructure, with USD 116.76 million designated specifically for social housing developments—a clear sign of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's commitment to easing the country's housing challenges. Housing ministry officials say securing contractors is a top priority as the administration seeks to advance projects promised by the president.
Momentum picked up in late January when the Ministry of Finance and Planning opened the bidding process for contractors. The effort spans 57 islands, offering opportunities for both local and international firms to participate in a national development push.
Interest has been strong. Ibrahim Nazeem, the State Minister for Construction, Housing and Infrastructure, said contractors—including foreign enterprises—have been actively seeking details and exploring potential involvement. The ministry is encouraged by the early response and expects to secure experienced firms capable of delivering projects to international standards, he said.
"Engagement from world-class contractors has been promising, and we are confident companies of that stature can be found to execute these initiatives effectively," Nazeem said.
Work is progressing on multiple fronts. In addition to individual atoll developments, the administration is moving forward with efforts to secure funding and contractors for housing projects targeted for the Malé region. State Minister Nazeem said the administration remains confident that construction on several major initiatives will begin in the coming months, advancing President Dr Muizzu's vision for national housing reform.
"Housing remains a top priority for the president," Nazeem said. "He is closely monitoring progress and providing guidance to fast-track solutions for citizens struggling with housing challenges. The target is clear—ensuring better living conditions for those most in need."
The administration plans to construct more than 12,000 housing units under a design-and-build framework, distributed across 57 islands. The bidding process is structured to accommodate projects of varying sizes: local contractors may bid on developments with fewer than 50 housing units, while both local and international firms are eligible to compete for larger-scale projects, ranging from 51 to 150 units, 200 to 250 units, and more than 300 units.