Local Firms to Build 1,000 Spacious New Flats in Hulhumalé Phase II

The Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development is finalizing contracts this week to award the construction of 1,000 new housing units to five entirely domestically owned companies. This initiative is part of a strategic government effort to address the Maldives' persistent housing crisis by empowering local contractors. State Minister for Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Ahmed Nazim Mohamed revealed during the PSM News programme ‘Raajje Miadhu’ that the project will be split equally among the five firms. Each company will be responsible for constructing 200 units, consisting of 60 two-bedroom and 140 three-bedroom apartments. These upcoming residences mark a significant shift in social housing standards, offering larger floor plans than previous state-led developments. The two-bedroom units will measure 700 square feet, while the three-bedroom apartments will exceed 950 square feet. Minister Nazim emphasized that both the interior finishes and exterior communal areas will see notable improvements to enhance the quality of life for residents. The construction is slated for Phase II of the Hulhumalé development zone. This project is a key pillar of a broader national housing strategy that spans the greater Malé region and the outer atolls. To date, the ministry has already awarded three land plots to local corporations in Hulhumalé Phase I and one plot in Villimalé. In addition to the local contracts, two Chinese firms have been granted land rights in Hulhumalé Phase II. Work on those specific sites is expected to begin once the design phase is completed and the necessary permits are secured. By prioritizing domestic firms for this latest 1,000-unit project, the government aims to boost the local construction sector while rapidly expanding the available housing stock for Maldivian citizens.