Rising demand for home renovations, extensions and insulation works has driven municipal bodies to seek increased funding to keep pace with the nation’s growing needs.
Muharraq Municipal Council vice-chairman Saleh Buhazza, who heads the council’s renovation project committee, noted a significant rise in applications under the Towns and Villages Development programme, particularly for structural repairs and thermal and waterproof insulation.
“The growing number of requests reflects heightened public awareness of the importance of maintaining building safety, addressing dampness and water leakage, and reducing heat impact,” he said. “All of this improves indoor comfort, limits long-term damage and enhances overall quality of life.”
He stressed that requests related to building safety and insulation are being treated as top priority, given their direct impact on residents’ wellbeing and the longevity of homes.
Under this scheme, households may receive up to BD10,000 for renovation or waterproofing works, while exceptional cases may qualify for additional funding, subject to technical evaluation and the level of need.
For the 2025-2026 period, around BD2.4 million has been allocated to the programme, with additional funding to be sanctioned if required by the Finance and National Economy Ministry.
However, Mr Buhazza said the growing backlog of applications warranted a review of allocations.
“There is a real need to increase funding by at least 50 per cent to ensure pending requests across Bahrain are addressed in a timely manner,” he said.
Mr Buhazza explained that insulation works have become particularly critical, not only in preventing water seepage and humidity but also in reducing energy consumption and extending the lifespan of buildings.
“Thermal and waterproof insulation plays a key role in protecting homes from recurring problems and rising maintenance costs, provided works adhere strictly to approved plans and technical specifications,” he added.
He said the programme is implemented in co-ordination with the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry and specialised technical bodies, with applications assessed against regulatory requirements and approved engineering standards.
Efforts are being made to speed up procedures, especially where safety concerns are involved.
Mr Buhazza expressed gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for their continued support of housing improvement initiatives.
“The sustained backing from the leadership and the government reflects a genuine commitment to improving living standards and enhancing citizens’ quality of life,” he said.
He noted that the renovations, extensions and insulation programme has played a tangible role in improving living conditions for thousands of Bahraini families.
“It has helped modernise homes, strengthen their structural safety and raise the overall quality of the urban environment, particularly across Muharraq governorate,” he added.
As applications continue to increase, he stressed that enhancing the fund is essential to ensure the programme remains both responsive and effective in addressing citizens’ housing requirements.
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