Government policies on housing, infrastructure development, fishermen support and social assistance have been outlined by a senior official, following a series of proposals submitted by legislators.
Parliament and Shura Council Affairs Minister Ghanim Al Buainain said that several recommendations by MPs are already addressed within existing regulations.
Addressing a proposal to waive electricity, water and municipal dues after a person’s death, Mr Al Buainain said relief mechanisms already exist for low-income families.
Under Resolution No 30 of 2014, amended in 2019, arrears for up to two years before death can be waived if the deceased was registered with the Social Development Ministry as low-income.
Municipal regulations also allow authorities to waive or reduce fees for humanitarian reasons following social assessments.
The government also said that housing applications cancelled due to salary increases can be revived under amendments introduced in 2023.
Mr Al Buainain noted that revised income calculations give applicants greater flexibility to qualify for housing services provided by the Housing and Urban Planning Ministry, while applications can be reinstated within two years if eligibility criteria are met.
He also clarified that the Housing Bank does not charge interest on housing loans, operating instead under Islamic financing principles.
Administrative fees for financing services are capped at three per cent, with repayment instalments limited to 25pc of a beneficiary’s income and a six-month grace period granted before payments begin.
The government also supports buyers through the Mazaya programme, which covers the difference between the bank instalment and the amount payable by the citizen.
Officials also confirmed that planning procedures are progressing for Nurana Island, following approval of the main subdivision plan in 2011.
Authorities are currently conducting traffic and planning studies in co-ordination with the Works Ministry and the Urban Planning and Development Authority to improve access routes and integrate the island with nearby developments.
Measures to support Bahrain’s fishing sector were also outlined.
Mr Al Buainain said the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) provides programmes to help Bahraini fishermen through training, financing and equipment support.
Additional initiatives include subsidised diesel and financing facilities provided through the Bahrain Development Bank (BDB) to enhance productivity and sustain traditional maritime livelihoods.
The government stressed that these initiatives form part of broader policies aimed at strengthening economic stability, safeguarding marine resources and ensuring food security.
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