In a landmark move, Bahrain’s government has allocated BD800 million for housing projects and services – the largest budget in the nation’s history for this sector.
The announcement was made during a high-level government-legislative meeting yesterday at the National Assembly Complex in Gudaibiya, where officials discussed key priorities for the upcoming national budget 2025-2026.
Finance and National Economy Minister Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa led the government’s delegation while National Assembly and Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam and Shura Council Chairman Ali Saleh Al Saleh headed their respective chambers.
Shaikh Salman stressed the significance of the unprecedented investment, asserting that ensuring sustainable housing services for citizens ‘is a top priority for the government’.
“The BD800 million budget aims to address one of Bahrain’s longstanding challenges – housing demand,” he said.
“By streamlining service delivery and working closely with private developers, the government seeks to minimise waiting times and provide immediate solutions to those in need.”
Housing and Urban Planning Minister Amna Al Romaihi revealed last month that there are 47,600 families waiting for housing services and homes across the kingdom.
Shaikh Salman said the allocation aligned with Bahrain’s broader vision of enhancing the quality of life for its citizens through sustainable urban development.
“We are committed to ensuring that every Bahraini citizen has access to adequate housing without unnecessary delays,” Shaikh Salman added.
“Beyond housing, the budget also includes substantial investments in education, infrastructure and social services.”
The government also pledged to increase support for Bahraini professionals in the education sector, modernise curricula, and enhance educational services.
Plans are underway to construct new schools in recently developed housing areas and reopen historic schools to accommodate growing student populations.
Among other projects are revamping of parks, walkways, and coastal areas, along with initiatives to improve local markets and community spaces.
Bahrain’s agricultural output would also be strengthened to bolster food security and reduce dependency on imports.
Shaikh Salman pointed out that the government’s approach goes beyond housing.
“Our vision is holistic; housing, education, infrastructure and economic sustainability must go hand in hand,” he said. “This is why our new budget ensures that all these areas receive the necessary funding to create a better future for all Bahrainis.”
He said with this record-breaking investment, Bahrain would make significant strides in improving the quality of life for its citizens, ensuring that housing remains not just a necessity, but a right that is delivered efficiently and equitably.
Mr Al Musallam reaffirmed the commitment of the legislative authority to support government programmes, ministerial projects, and developmental initiatives that serve the nation and its citizens.
He highlighted the shared commitment to reviewing and discussing all perspectives regarding the approval of the budget with the goal of supporting economic growth, maintaining financial stability, creating promising opportunities for citizens, and achieving national objectives.
Mr Al Saleh outlined the importance of ongoing joint consultative meetings, where government programmes aligned with sustainable development requirements are presented and reviewed.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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