Plans for a new government housing project in the historic fishing village of Malkiya will have to be put on hold, as the Housing and Urban Planning Ministry confirmed that the proposal requires more time to move forward due to funding constraints.
The initiative, submitted by Northern Municipal Council services and public utilities committee chairwoman and area councillor Zainab Al Durazi, calls for the partial acquisition of a privately owned coastal plot to develop housing for local families facing long-standing shortages.
Ms Al Durazi said the ministry had valued and appreciated the proposal, but indicated that implementation would have to wait until financial allocations are secured through state budgets approved by the newly-elected Parliament later this year.
“We received a response from the Housing and Urban Planning Ministry confirming its appreciation of the proposal and its objectives,” she said. “However, the ministry has also made it clear that the project will take longer, as there is currently no budget available.”
The proposal was unanimously approved by the Northern Municipal Council at its meeting on November 3 last year following a favourable technical and legal review by the financial, administrative and legislative committee, chaired by Dr Mohsin Abdulla.
The targeted site forms part of parcel No. 10027887 in Block 1033, along Malkiya’s western coastline – an area known for its traditional fishing heritage and close-knit community.
The plan focuses on acquiring a portion of the larger plot to minimise environmental impact while preserving the village’s character.
Ms Al Durazi said the initiative was prompted by the severe lack of government land in or near Malkiya, leaving many families waiting years for housing.
“Many residents have housing applications that have been pending for a long time, with no nearby government projects to accommodate them,” she said. “This proposal is about allowing the people of Malkiya to remain in their own village, close to their families, heritage and livelihoods.”
She added that the proposed site is strategically located near schools, mosques, main roads and existing water and sewage networks, making it suitable for an integrated residential development.
“Our aim is to create a well-planned housing project that meets urgent needs while respecting the environment and the village’s social fabric,” she said.
Dr Abdulla stressed the social importance of the project, noting that Malkiya has not seen a new government housing development for more than 20 years.
“Malkiya is a historic community with deep roots, and its residents deserve access to suitable housing without being forced to relocate far from their families,” he said. “The partial acquisition approach is both efficient and socially responsible, balancing development with community preservation.”
The council’s technical support unit confirmed that there are no legal or planning objections to the partial acquisition, citing the site’s appropriate location and topography.
The council’s responses will be forwarded to Municipalities and Agriculture Affairs Minister Wael Al Mubarak for co-ordination with the Housing and Urban Planning Ministry.
Despite the delay, Ms Al Durazi said follow-up efforts would continue. “Approval is only the first step,” she said. “We will continue working to ensure this proposal is included in future housing plans once financial allocations become available, in line with the aspirations of Malkiya’s people.”
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