President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that recipients of land plots from previous housing schemes will be given the opportunity to exchange their plots for flats under the Government’s Boahiyaavahikan Emmenah housing programme.

The announcement was made during a press briefing held on Monday.

President Dr Muizzu said the policy aims to improve access to housing, particularly for individuals who lack the financial means to develop land allocated to them under earlier schemes in Gulhifalhu, Giraavaru Falhu and Hulhumalé.

He noted that while these individuals already possess land, their circumstances will still be taken into consideration during the application process. The President added that priority will be assessed fairly, especially in comparison to those who do not own either land or housing.

In addition, the President said the opportunity would be provided through the application process, noting that time is needed to arrange access via the portal. He added that within the next two weeks, once the Binveriyaa scheme process is finalised, those who received land under the previous government would be given the option to relinquish their plots and apply for flats.

The Government has recently introduced several changes to its housing schemes to expand access and improve flexibility.

Last week, President Dr Muizzu also announced that beneficiaries would be allowed to transfer their allocated housing assets to immediate family members, instead of returning them to the State.