Government announces new regulations for flat and land allocation

The government has announced new regulations governing the allocation of land and flats in the Male' area, setting out eligibility criteria and a points-based system for applicants.

Under the regulations, land will be allocated to two categories of applicants living in Male':

Permanent residents of Male' and residents of other islands who are currently living in the capital. Both categories will be eligible to receive plots measuring 1,250 square feet.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has previously announced that 25,000 land plots will be allocated in Rasmale' within the next two to three months.

According to the regulations, applicants classified as permanent residents of Male' may be allocated land in the Greater Male' area – including Hulhumale', Gulhifalhu and Giraavaru Falhu – as well as Rasmale'. Applicants originally from other islands but residing in Male' will be eligible for land in Rasmale'.

To qualify under the second category, applicants must have lived continuously in Male' for at least 15 years, calculated up to 14 January next year.

Applicants will be awarded points based on the length of their residence in Male' and whether they own land or have previously received land through state allocation. Under the system, 20 points will be awarded for 15 to 20 years of residence, 30 points for 20 to 25 years, and 40 points for more than 30 years.

The regulations define three ways an individual may be recognised as a resident of Male': being registered at a Male' address since birth, being listed on the Male' register, or being later registered at a household in Male'.

Permanent residents of Male' must also meet additional conditions. Applicants must not own more than 400 square feet of land anywhere in the country. Those who own up to 400 square feet must agree to relinquish that portion in accordance with government regulations in order to qualify. Individuals who already own 400 square feet of land will not be eligible to apply.

The new threshold marks a reduction from previous regulations, under which applicants were disqualified only if they owned more than 600 square feet.

Under the updated rules, authorities will also assess whether an applicant has previously sold or transferred land or a flat. In addition, applicants will be ineligible if their spouse has already received a flat in the Male' area.