Hamdhan Shakeel rejects calls to reduce rent or down payments for FDC flats

Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation (FDC) has no plans to revise or reduce the rent for the 4,000 flats developed in Phase II of Hulhumale', Managing Director Hamdhan Shakeel said Wednesday.

The Fahi Union, a group advocating for the tenants, on Wednesday urged the government to revert the rent to the rates set by the previous MDP administration and to lower the down payment required for the units.

When asked by Sun, Hamdhan said in a brief message that he had no intention of offering any further rent relief.

The 4,000 flats include 1,250 two‑bedroom units and 2,750 three‑bedroom units.

Under the previous government, rent was set at MVR 6,000 for a two‑bedroom flat and MVR 8,000 for a three‑bedroom flat, inclusive of maintenance fees. However, under the current government’s agreement, the rent was increased to MVR 7,000 for two‑bedroom units and MVR 10,000 for three‑bedroom units.

The Fahi Union has also called for a reduction in the down payment and an extension of the current three‑month grace period to six months or one year, citing global economic pressures and the high costs associated with relocating to new flats.

The Housing Development Corporation (HDC) recently announced a two‑year rent reduction for shelter flats, a decision made shortly before the local council elections. The move has drawn criticism, with some accusing the government of offering concessions amid heightened political competition ahead of Saturday’s vote.