The scale of housing demand in the Male' area has been laid bare with the closure of application periods for the government's flagship Housing for All scheme, which saw an overwhelming 58,505 applications submitted within just six months.
The unprecedented surge in interest—prompting an extension of the deadline from 23:59 to 2:00 am on June 15 due to technical difficulties with the Housing Portal—has underscored the acute need for residential solutions in the capital region.
Of the total applications received, 35,930 were for flats while 22,575 sought land allocation, clearly demonstrating a strong preference for multi-unit dwellings over individual plots. The Family Housing Programme attracted 45,644 applicants, comprising 35,818 flat applications and 9,826 land requests. Meanwhile, the Housing for All programme drew 12,861 applications, with a striking reversal—only 112 applications for flats against 12,749 for land.
In response to this overwhelming demand, the government has committed to allocating 15,000 plots across the Greater Male' area and Rasmale', alongside 7,900 flats. Of these flats, 4,000 are designated for Male' residents, 1,500 for atoll inhabitants currently residing in the capital, and 2,400 for special priority categories. The land allocation includes 10,000 plots for Male' residents, 3,000 for non-residents, and 500 for persons with disabilities, with an additional 1,500 plots reserved for those relocating from the city's narrow streets.
The government has also implemented several rule changes to broaden accessibility, including allowing applications for land even when a spouse already possesses residence, permitting joint landholders to opt out, and enabling parents of disabled persons to apply on their behalf. Additionally, those occupying one or two-bedroom flats under previous schemes may apply for three-bedroom units, subject to certain conditions based on family size.
To facilitate these ambitious plans, major infrastructure developments are underway. Phase 3 dredging of Hulhumale' has been completed, with more than 500 hectares now ready for handover. Additional reclamation projects are planned for Giraavaru Falhu and Uthuru Thilafalhu. Foundation stones have been laid for new flats in Hulhumale' and Villimale', with developer searches now in progress.
With funding secured for continued housing projects, the government aims to complete these initiatives within its current term, promising significant relief for thousands seeking affordable housing in the capital.