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Parliament is set to debate a proposal calling for the development of effective rules governing housing associations in government apartments, amidst concerns over non-compliance and weak enforcement.
The proposal, submitted by five MPs led by Hassan Ibrahim, aims to strengthen procedures regulating home owners’ unions, particularly in cases involving unpaid subscriptions, neglect of shared facilities and failure to comply with collective obligations.
According to a report by the public utilities and environment affairs committee, the initiative seeks to enhance justice, social stability and proper use of shared spaces in government-owned apartment buildings, while addressing gaps in the current regulatory framework.
Mr Ibrahim said the proposal was driven by repeated complaints from residents affected by poor management of common areas.
“When some beneficiaries fail to meet their responsibilities, everyone else pays the price,” Mr Ibrahim said. “This proposal is about fairness, accountability and protecting the quality of life in government housing projects.”
The committee noted that while Ministerial Decision No 97 of 2014 – amended in 2016 – regulates unions, it does not clearly specify enforcement mechanisms or procedures for dealing with violations such as failure to pay fees or maintain shared facilities.
Housing Minister Amna Al Romaihi confirmed that the objectives of the proposal were already being implemented through ongoing reforms.
“These include restructuring unions, regulating the nomination of board members for each building and introducing clearer management guidelines,” she said.
She also highlighted the launch of the Ittihadat (Unions) system, which involves Eskan Properties Company in managing and maintaining shared facilities, with the aim of improving efficiency across all government apartment buildings.
“Pilot projects are set to begin in Salman Town, where updated management systems for shared areas will be tested before being formally adopted through a revised regulatory decision.”
Mr Ibrahim welcomed these steps but stressed the importance of parliamentary oversight.
“Developing clear, enforceable rules ensures that beneficiaries’ unions function effectively and transparently,” he said. “It also safeguards public assets and ensures shared facilities are maintained to acceptable standards,” he said, recommending parliamentary approval of the proposal.
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