The government has expanded its flagship housing initiative by introducing a third category to the Binveriyaa scheme, part of the broader national “Gohi-Gedhoru” programme aimed at increasing access to housing.
Details of the update were outlined in amendments published in the Government Gazette, setting out new eligibility options for applicants seeking land or housing in the Greater Malé region.
New Option for Plot and Flat Applicants
Under the newly added Category 3, individuals who had previously applied for land under the scheme are now given the option to revise their application.
This includes two groups:
- Applicants who initially applied individually for a land plot but now wish to give up that allocation in favour of a flat
- Groups who applied jointly for land and are now seeking to withdraw the joint application and instead apply separately for individual plots or housing units
The change is expected to provide greater flexibility for applicants whose housing preferences or circumstances have evolved.
Application Window Announced
Authorities confirmed that applications under the revised category will open at 11:00 AM on May 10, 2026, and remain open until 11:59 PM on May 31, 2026.
The deadline for applications across multiple categories under the first phase of the scheme has also been extended to the end of May.
Overview of Scheme Categories
With the addition of the new category, the Binveriyaa scheme now includes:
- Category 1: Individuals who applied jointly and have already been allocated land
- Category 2: Individuals previously ineligible due to receiving housing under earlier government programmes
- Category 3: Applicants seeking to exchange or restructure their existing land allocations into flats or separate applications
Part of Broader Housing Push
The Binveriyaa scheme forms part of the administration’s wider housing policy introduced last November under President Mohamed Muizzu, aimed at addressing housing demand nationwide.
Applications for the programme opened earlier this year, with the government offering a total of 15,000 land plots and 7,900 housing units.
Officials said the introduction of the third category reflects adjustments made in response to feedback received from the public, particularly during recent engagements with citizens.
Flexibility Added to Housing Programme
The latest revision is expected to give applicants more options in aligning their housing choices with their current needs, while also helping authorities manage demand more effectively.
The government has maintained that the overall goal of the programme is to improve access to housing and ensure broader participation in ownership opportunities across the Maldives.
