In a landmark move for Bahrain, His Majesty King Hamad has ordered to fast-track housing projects to deliver 50,000 new units and enhance public services to meet citizens’ needs.

The government also has allocated BD800 million ($2.1 billion) for housing projects and services – the largest budget in the nation’s history since the introduction of this sector, according to Bahrain News Agency (BNA). The announcement was made during a high-level government-legislative meeting last month at the National Assembly Complex, where officials discussed key priorities for the upcoming national budget 2025-2026.

Finance and National Economy Minister Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa led the government’s delegation while National Assembly and Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam and Shura Council Chairman Ali Saleh Al Saleh headed their respective chambers.

The government team also reviewed several ministerial priorities and projects proposed for inclusion in the state budget. These include ensuring the sustainability of housing services for citizens and reducing waiting lists by providing immediate access to housing services in partnership with the private sector.

Additionally, the government team outlined initiatives to strengthen the education sector. These include building new schools in expanding residential cities, reopening historic schools, and constructing academic facilities within schools. 

Shaikh Salman stressed the significance of the unprecedented investment, asserting that ensuring sustainable housing services for citizens ‘is a top priority for the government’.

“The BD800 million budget aims to address one of Bahrain’s longstanding challenges – housing demand,” he stated. “By streamlining service delivery and working closely with private developers, the government seeks to minimise waiting times and provide immediate solutions to those in need.”

Housing and Urban Planning Minister Amna Al Romaihi revealed last month that there are 47,600 families waiting for housing services and homes across the kingdom.