New Housing Decision Offers Enhanced Benefits for Single Mothers and Widows

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning has announced a new housing decision approved by the Council of Ministers in its recent session, introducing several new benefits for applicants, as reported by our sister newspaper Alayam.

According to Mariam Al Fliti, Director of Beneficiary Service Directorate at the Ministry, a key amendment in the new decision addresses the age limit for children listed in applications. Previously, applications were transferred to a child upon reaching the age of 21. However, the new decision exempts single mothers and widows with minor children from this requirement, allowing them to retain their applications even if their children exceed the age limit. This ensures that they continue to be eligible for housing units.

Furthermore, the new decision simplifies the income eligibility criteria. Applicants will only be required to meet the income requirements at the time of application. Any subsequent changes to the income eligibility criteria will not affect their applications.

The decision also eliminates the requirement for a spouse to not have inherited property to be eligible for housing services. Al Fliti emphasised that the decision aims to ensure the continuity of housing applications by maintaining the eligibility criteria met by the head of the household, while also prioritizing providing housing for all segments of society.

These amendments are a result of collaborative efforts between the legislative and executive branches, following the review of numerous cases and incorporating suggestions from citizens, sje stated.

"These suggestions were received through the National System for Proposals and Complaints ("Tawasul"), the Customer Service Center, parliamentary offices, various social media platforms, and radio broadcasts," she expalined.