The government’s “Housing for All” policy, announced in November last year, has attracted more than 10,000 applications since submissions opened in January, according to the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development.
The scheme offers 15,000 plots of land and 7,900 housing units, with separate categories for residents of Malé and individuals from other islands currently living in the capital.
Authorities have introduced multiple categories to reflect varying living conditions, prioritising factors such as household income, family size and current housing status. A total of 2,400 flats have been allocated under specific categories for city residents and special groups.
For the first time, individuals working in sectors such as fisheries and tourism are eligible to apply. A dedicated category has also been created for individuals registered in the taxi sector.
Applicants who previously received two-bedroom flats under social housing schemes may now apply for three-bedroom units if they have children of both genders.
In addition, 1,500 plots have been reserved for persons with disabilities and those relocating from congested areas with narrow streets. A special category has also been introduced to allow persons with disabilities to apply separately, including through parents or guardians.
Further categories have been added following public consultation. These include opportunities for individuals with shared land ownership under previous schemes to apply separately, as well as provisions for those who received flats but did not apply for earlier land allocation programmes. A separate initiative titled “Goathi Gedhoru” has also been introduced for individuals with housing through a spouse.
The application deadline has been extended until May to allow more applicants to apply under the newly introduced categories. This marks the second extension granted by the government.
Officials noted that the majority of applicants have applied for flats rather than land. The government has urged applicants to complete submissions promptly, ensuring all required documents, including proof of residence, are provided. Only one opportunity will be given to make changes after submission.
Details of the scheme and the scoring criteria have been published in the Government Gazette, with applications accepted through the official housing portal "Boahiyaavahikan".
The government has also announced plans to introduce a separate category targeting the most vulnerable households, although this component has yet to be opened for applications.