THE government has been urged to either reduce the monthly instalments under the Mazaya housing finance programme for thousands of families who are still paying higher rates, or provide subsidies to ease their mounting financial pressure.
The proposal, submitted by five MPs led by Dr Abdulhakim Al Sheno, has been referred to the Cabinet for review.
The move comes amid growing concerns that the latest Mazaya reductions, introduced under the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, have only benefited a small segment of citizens.
According to the proposal, only around 3,000 families – representing 23 per cent of all Mazaya beneficiaries – received reductions, with their monthly instalments dropping from BD527 to BD427.
However, the remaining 77pc continue to pay higher, fluctuating monthly instalments that rise with each renewal, placing them under significant financial stress.
Dr Al Sheno said the urgent proposal aims to correct what he described as an ‘unintended imbalance’ in the rollout of recent relief measures.
“Mazaya is one of the most important housing programmes in Bahrain’s modern history and it has allowed thousands of families to secure decent homes,” Dr Al Sheno said.
“But the reality today is that a large majority of beneficiaries are still burdened with rising instalments that do not match their income levels. These families deserve equal financial stability and support.”
He added that extending the benefit to all Mazaya participants would strengthen the programme’s core social mission.
“Our goal is simple: equal opportunity and equal relief,” Dr Al Sheno emphasised.
“When 77pc of families are still paying higher instalments – despite facing the same economic pressures – it becomes our duty to intervene. Reducing their instalments or granting them a direct financial subsidy is essential to protect their housing security and family stability.”
Dr Al Sheno noted that the programme’s impact extends far beyond individual households.
“Mazaya has reduced waiting lists, supported banks, accelerated home ownership, and given families the freedom to choose where they live,” he said.
“But no programme can succeed if a majority of its beneficiaries are struggling with unpredictable financial obligations. This proposal is designed to restore fairness and strengthen the foundation of the housing system.”
The Cabinet will now study the proposal and determine whether the instalment reduction can be expanded or whether an alternative form of relief – such as a financial grant – could be introduced.
Parliament also unanimously approved an urgent proposal by 27 MPs to issue a statement on Bahraini Women’s Day, celebrated on Monday. They deputised Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam to issue it on their behalf.
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