Scrap Mazaya: MPs push for a fairer housing scheme for low-income families

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Enough is enough. Steep repayment plans, endless waiting lists, and restrictive criteria—these are the burdens that have left Bahrain’s low-income families struggling under the weight of the ‘Mazaya’ housing scheme. Instead of providing relief, the programme has become a source of frustration and pressure, MPs argue. And next Tuesday, all of this will come to a head, as the Parliament prepares for a fierce debate. MPs are rallying to scrap the once-praised ‘Mazaya’ scheme, which they argue is no longer fit for purpose.

The demand for change is loud and clear. Parliamentarians insist that it’s high time to replace the failing programme with a more effective plan that truly supports Bahrain’s low-income citizens.

Even the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning seems to agree. They have openly admitted that the scheme, originally meant to provide swift housing solutions, has not lived up to expectations. “Mazaya has struggled to meet its goals,” the M i n i s t r y conceded.

What next?

MP Khalid Saleh Buanaq, who has spearheaded the proposal, believes the answer lies in a fresh approach. “We need a housing programme that truly meets the financial and social needs of low-income families,” he asserts. He is pushing to amend Ministerial Decision No. 909 of 2015 to create a more inclusive and equitable system.

Critics argue that since its launch in 2014, the Mazaya scheme has been plagued by problems. Long waiting lists, tight criteria, and steep repayment terms have left many without a clear path to secure housing. While the programme was designed to offer subsidised housing loans through banks, the strict approval process and burdensome requirements have left many feeling let down.

Other Options on the Table

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning has pointed out that new solutions are already available, including real estate facilitation services. They have also expressed a willingness to work with Parliament on alternative plans to better support low-income families.

Reduce wait

The Public Utilities and Environment Committee, which has been reviewing the proposal in a series of meetings, is advocating for a replacement programme that can cut waiting times and ease financial strain. MPs have been consulting with legal experts and ministry representatives to fine-tune a more effective plan.

The proposed alternative promises to deliver what the Mazaya scheme couldn’t: flexible financing options, higher loan limits, and expanded support for those who need it most.