The Ministry of Finance and Planning has published the “Rules for Determining Development Controls in Hulhumale’”, permitting the construction of buildings of up to 10 storeys and establishing a comprehensive framework for sustainable urban growth.
The new regulations, formulated under the Land Act, are designed to introduce a robust and transparent system for building on residential land. They aim to facilitate orderly development, improve the quality of life for residents, and provide clear, stringent guidelines for landowners and developers. The Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has been designated as the enforcing body for these rules.
Under the new framework, all design approvals and construction permits for residential buildings in Hulhumale’ must be obtained directly through the HDC via its online portal, ensuring a streamlined process. Construction can only commence once the necessary permits are secured. The HDC also holds the responsibility for installing and re-installing land boundary marks to guarantee all work adheres to registered plot standards.
A key feature of the regulations is the allowance for mixed-use development. Depending on the building's height, certain floors can be allocated for permitted commercial activities, aimed at fostering local economic growth without disrupting the residential environment. However, the rules explicitly prohibit industrial activities, warehousing, and any operations that produce excessive noise, smell, smoke, or dirt.
The regulations set precise standards, including a maximum building height of 30.5 metres. Accordingly, plots larger than 901 square feet will be permitted to construct buildings up to this height, effectively allowing for 10-storey structures. The rules also detail requirements for Floor Space Index (FSI), mandatory setbacks (vacant space around a building), and parking provisions. For taller buildings, the ground floor or basement must be reserved for parking.
Further stipulations cover modern urban necessities, mandating standards for elevators in high-rises, minimum ceiling heights, waste disposal areas, and ventilation. In a forward-looking mandate, all buildings in Hulhumale’ Phase 2 are required to include ducts for GPON fibre optic cables to support digital infrastructure. The rules also promote sustainability by requiring roofed terraces to be designed to accommodate solar panels and include accessibility standards for people with disabilities.
The Ministry stated that these rules are a decisive step towards ensuring easy access and sustainable development, repealing the previous 2023 Hulhumale’ Planning and Building Rules with immediate effect.