Preserving Heritage and Promoting Sustainable Development in UCA
Properties located within Urban Conservation Areas (UCAs) in Malta and Gozo, whether old or newly built in the traditional Maltese style, benefit from government incentives. These measures aim to preserve cultural heritage, promote sustainable development, and revitalize the real estate sector by encouraging the acquisition and renovation of such properties.
Marsaxlokk, a traditional fishing village
The capital city of Malta, Valletta
The UCA Localities in Malta
Malta North:
Dingli – Ghaghur – Mdina – Mellieha – Mgarr – Mosta – Naxxar – Rabat – St Pauls Bay
Malta Central:
Attard – Balzan – Birkirkara – Floriana – Hamrun – Santa Venera – Haz-Zebbug – Lija – Msida – Pieta – Ta’ Xbiex – St Julians – Sliema – Valletta
Malta South:
B’Bugia – Birgu – Bormla – Ghaxaq – Gudja – Isla – Kalkara – Kirkop – Luqa – Marsa – Marsascala – Marsaxlokk – Mqabba – Paola – Tarxien – Qormi – Qrendi – Safi – Siggiewi – Zabbar – Zejtun – Zurrieq
What are the incentive:
Stamp Duty (on residential properties):
3.5% if it’s a first home.
Discounts or exemptions on properties in UCA (if the government decides to incentivize the purchase).
Renovation and Restoration:
Subsidies up to 50% of restoration costs.
Tax Deductions:
Tax deductions up to 25% of renovation expenses.
Eco-friendly Financing:
Low-interest loans for ecological and sustainable works.
Incentives for Commercial Use:
Reduced tax rates for tourist rentals or commercial activities in UCA.
Heritage Financing:
Contributions for the conservation and restoration of historic buildings, up to 75% of costs.
Sliema is a prominent coastal town located on the northeastern coast of Malta, known for its picturesque waterfront and views of Valletta.
The image displays the vibrant “Umbrella Street” in Żabbar
To qualify for grants or concessions when purchasing a property in a UCA in Malta, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a legal Maltese resident
- Be the rightful owner of a property in a recognised UCA
- Own a private residential property over 20 years old, or
- Own a property that has been vacant for over 7 years (with proof from ARMS and an architect’s certificate), or
- Purchase a new property built in line with official government design guidelines
