HDC Unveils Revised Hulhumalé Master Plan to Guide Future Urban Growth
NewsAhmed Shurau
Housing Development Corporation has officially launched a revised Master Plan for Hulhumalé, introducing significant updates to accommodate the city’s rapid urban development and expanding population.
The new master plan was unveiled by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu at a special ceremony held in Hulhumalé Phase 2 on May 26, 2025. The event was attended by key Government officials, including Minister of Cities, Local Government and Public Works Adam Shareef Umar, Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib, and senior executives from the Housing Development Corporation (HDC).
According to HDC, the revised master plan reflects comprehensive technical assessments and consultations conducted over recent years. It is designed to meet evolving urban demands, optimise lagoon land use, and improve service delivery across residential, commercial, and institutional sectors.
The updated land allocation breakdown is as follows:
- 29.84% for residential use
- 10.41% for schools, mosques, and public institutions
- 5.56% for commercial purposes
- 1.44% for mixed-use zones
- 30.62% for green spaces, sports, and recreational areas
- 3.64% for office zones
- 5.76% for industrial development
Key infrastructure changes include expanding the port area from 36 hectares to 53 hectares and integrating 11 new land connections between Phases 2 and 3. The plan also allocates additional land for family-oriented amenities and the ongoing Binveriya housing project. Notably, provisions have been made for infrastructure to support the Maldives' first international financial institution.
A 3D model of the master plan was revealed at the ceremony, alongside the launch of HDC’s newly redesigned official website, aimed at improving public access to planning data and services.
Since its initial resettlement in 2004, Hulhumalé has undergone major transformation. Phase 1 spans 194 hectares and is expected to house 100,000 residents, while Phase 2 covers 251 hectares with a projected population of 250,000. The revised master plan sets the foundation for Phase 3 and beyond, positioning Hulhumalé as a central urban and economic hub of the Maldives.
