Social housing units rented to expatriates have been ordered to be vacated, with authorities setting a deadline of January 3 to comply.

Housing Development Corporation (HDC) announced on Wednesday night that social housing units, which are allocated to eligible beneficiaries under the social housing scheme, have been illegally leased to expatriates in some cases. HDC said such practices violate the terms of the housing agreements.

According to HDC, any social housing units found to be rented to expatriates will be subject to a moratorium period to vacate the premises. The public has been urged to ensure that expatriates leave these units before the January 3 deadline. HDC warned that agreements will be terminated if any units continue to be leased to expatriates after that date.

HDC also appealed to recipients of social housing to comply with the terms of their agreements. Social housing is intended to support homeless and vulnerable individuals, but concerns persist that some beneficiaries obtained flats by providing false information and later rented them out at high prices.

While the housing shortage remains unresolved, the current administration’s actions to address misuse of social housing have received public support. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said he was previously unaware of the issue and has been working to resolve problems related to social housing under the scheme.