The government’s latest housing initiative has drawn strong public interest, with Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib reporting that more than 3,600 applications have already been submitted. Early figures show a clear preference for flats over land plots, reflecting the urgent demand for immediate housing in the capital region.
The programme, introduced under the administration’s 'Boahiyaavehikan Emmenah' policy, opened its application window on 18 January. Deadlines have been staggered: applications for land plots must be filed by 4 March, while those seeking flats have until 17 April.
Speaking on a programme aired on PSM News, Minister Muththalib said that 3,651 applications have been fully completed and submitted. Officials are also monitoring approximately 10,000 additional forms currently in draft. He noted that the data points to a significantly higher number of individuals applying for flats, attributing the trend to the financial and logistical burdens of developing raw land.
Despite the surge in interest, the minister urged applicants to take the necessary time to complete their forms accurately, even if the process is time-consuming. He reaffirmed that the administration is committed to prioritising individuals who currently lack housing.
The scope of the project is wide, covering the Greater Malé region and Rasmalé. The government has earmarked 15,000 land plots for distribution, alongside 7,900 flats within the Malé region. Of the flats, 4,000 units are designated for registered residents of Malé, 1,500 for residents from other islands currently living in the capital, and 2,400 for special priority categories.
The land distribution plan allocates 10,000 plots to Malé residents and 3,000 to those from other islands residing in the city. In addition, 500 plots are reserved for individuals affected by the inheritance exclusion known locally as 'Maimulha'. A further 1,500 plots have been set aside for homeowners in Malé seeking to exchange smaller plots or those situated in narrow lanes for better locations.
The scheme also introduces an upward mobility clause: individuals who received one- or two-bedroom flats under previous government programmes may apply for three-bedroom apartments, provided they meet specific criteria regarding family size.
This initiative is a central component of the 'Boahiyaavehikan Emmenah' policy, first unveiled on 16 November. The administration has since published comprehensive regulations governing the issuance of both land and apartments under the programme.