Land and Loan

TDT | Manama

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•  Some residents fear being offered plots far from home.

A family granted land under the Land and Loan scheme could find itself allocated a plot far from the community where its work, businesses and family responsibilities are based. MP Dr Munir Suroor has called for these circumstances to be taken into account when allocating land.

He urged the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning to provide plots within beneficiaries’ existing areas, or as close to them as possible whenever feasible.

Suroor said geographical proximity would help protect families’ interests, strengthen social stability and preserve community ties.

He pointed to the practical difficulties families could face if they are required to move far from their current areas. Some citizens have workshops, shops or farms nearby, while others have family responsibilities, including caring for parents. Relocating could also require families to change their children’s schools.

“Families should,

wherever possible,

remain close to their

communities and

livelihoods.”

                 - MP Dr Munir Suroor 

Suroor acknowledged that the availability and geographical distribution of government land may make it impossible to provide every beneficiary with a plot in their own area or village. However, he urged the ministry to prioritise proximity wherever suitable land is available.

He said considering the location of beneficiaries could help reduce travel and living costs while balancing available land with families’ social and economic circumstances.

Suroor said he had received calls and held meetings with citizens awaiting updates on the Land and Loan service, many of whom hope to receive plots in their own areas.

He expressed confidence in the approach of Housing and Urban Planning Minister Amna bint Ahmed Al Romaihi and the ministry’s efforts to provide suitable living conditions for citizens.

He cited residents of the seventh constituency in the Northern Governorate as an example, saying they could benefit from government land within the Buri and Janabiya plans if suitable plots become available, rather than being relocated to more distant areas.

Some residents in the constituency, he said, are concerned about potentially being allocated plots in East Sitra City.

Suroor also welcomed ongoing discussions between the ministry and banks on developing financing options and facilities for citizens, praising the ministry’s efforts to diversify funding choices and housing services.