Gov’t Unveils Mega Housing Development Initiative Across the Nation
The Maldivian government has unveiled an ambitious Public Housing Project to construct over 12,000 housing units across 57 islands. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Construction, Housing, and Infrastructure, the initiative aims to address housing shortages and improve living conditions nationwide.
The project will follow a phased approach, with tenders to be announced in February...
Foreign Minister Seeks to Enhance Maldives-Saudi Cooperation in Trade and Investment
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Maldives, Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, has commenced an official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from 29th to 31st January 2025, following an invitation from His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud, the Saudi Foreign Minister.
During his visit, Dr. Khaleel is scheduled to engage...
Maldives Seeks Closer Alignment with China in Message Marking Lunar New Year
On the occasion of the Chinese New Year, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu emphasised the Maldives' commitment to fortifying ties with the People’s Republic of China, highlighting the importance of the China-Maldives Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership. This partnership, which serves as a cornerstone of bilateral relations, reflects decades of collaboration in areas such as infrastructure, trade, and cultural...
High Input Costs Stagnate Growth in the Maldives Construction Sector
The Maldives construction sector continues to face significant challenges, as rising input prices and stagnant output prices hinder growth. According to the Maldives Monetary Authority's Quarterly Business Survey for Q4-2024, the sector recorded a contraction in activity, with several key indicators pointing towards persistent difficulties.
The volume of construction activity index fell by 26...
Maldives and Saudi Arabia Explore Opportunities in Real Estate Development
Minister of Construction, Housing & Infrastructure, Dr. Abdulla Mutththalib, has held a bilateral meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Municipalities and Housing, H.E. Majid bin Abdullah Al-Hogail, during his visit to Riyadh. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the fourth edition of the Real Estate Future Forum, a premier event focused on innovation and collaboration...
Favara Expands: HBL, CBM, and Dhiraagu Fintech Onboarded
The Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) has announced the onboarding of three new participants to its Instant Payment System, Favara. Habib Bank Limited (HBL), Commercial Bank of Maldives (CBM), and Dhiraagu Fintech Private Limited have successfully integrated into the system, with Dhiraagu Fintech marking a significant milestone as Favara's first non-bank payment service provider (PSP).
Low-Interest Loans to Drive Tourism Growth
The government has announced a series of economic initiatives aimed at driving tourism development and expanding opportunities in the northern atolls. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu shared these plans during his visit to Filladhoo in Haa Alifu Atoll, part of a three-day tour across several islands in the region.
Central to the strategy is the...
Indian High Commission Hosts Reception to Mark 76th Republic Day
The Indian High Commission in Maldives hosted a reception on Monday evening to celebrate India’s 76th Republic Day. The event, featuring vibrant cultural performances, brought together Maldivian government ministers, diplomats, and members of the Indian community living in the Maldives.
The reception was graced by the presence of several prominent Maldivian ministers, including Foreign...
Maldives Ends 2024 with +4.80% Annual CPI Growth, Tobacco Leads Gains
The Maldives Bureau of Statistics has reported a +1.11% increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for December 2024 compared to the previous month, reflecting a slower rise in prices compared to November's +2.47%. Excluding fish, the CPI rose by +1.13% in December, down from a +2.62% increase in November.
What is the...
Tourism Minister Faisal Dismissed, Economic Minister Saeed Steps In
Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal has been dismissed from President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s cabinet, with the portfolio temporarily assigned to Economic Development Minister Mohamed Saeed. The President’s Office confirmed the decision on Tuesday but did not disclose the reasons behind Faisal’s removal.
Faisal, who was appointed to the position on 17 November 2023, faced criticism...
Maldivian Travellers to Require UK ETA for Travel Starting January 2025
From 8 January 2025, Maldivian travellers are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before visiting the United Kingdom. This new system, introduced by the UK Government, is part of a digital border and immigration reform aimed at enhancing security and streamlining the travel process.
What Maldivians Need to Know
The ETA...
How the Maldives-China FTA Attracts Foreign Investment
The Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the Maldives and China, which came into effect on 1 January 2025, includes a comprehensive investment chapter designed to attract and safeguard foreign investment in the Maldives. The provisions create a stable and secure environment for investors by addressing key concerns such as treatment, dispute resolution, and the free transfer of funds.
Maldives and India Discuss Agricultural Cooperation and Food Security
The Maldives and India have explored potential avenues for cooperation in developing the agricultural sector of the Maldives during discussions held between Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, Dr Maryam Mariya, and Indian High Commissioner to the Maldives, G Balasubramaniam.
The meeting, which took place at the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, focused...
CMC Denies Arbitration Rumours Over RasMale’ Reclamation Project
Sri Lanka’s Capital Marine and Civil Construction Company (CMC) has denied rumours that it is filing an arbitration claim for compensation related to the RasMale’ reclamation project. The company issued a statement addressing reports of alleged legal action and a settlement agreement involving the Housing Development Corporation (HDC).
The RasMale’ reclamation project was awarded...
First Islands Allocated to Councils Under New Regulation
The government has handed over four uninhabited islands to three local councils, marking the first instance of such transfers under new regulations. The handovers were formalised during a ceremony held at the Finance Ministry on Monday.
The islands allocated are:
R. Neyo to the R. Inguraidhoo Council.
Dh....
Maldives Sea-to-Air Cargo Service Handles Over 1,078 Tonnes in 2024
Since its launch in 2024, the Maldives' Sea-to-Air Cargo Service, operated by Maldives Ports Limited (MPL), has successfully handled over 1,078 tonnes of cargo, equivalent to 258 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units). This accomplishment highlights the growing role of the service in enhancing global trade connectivity.
The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation shared the milestone in a...
Maldives Registers Surplus in First Half of January 2025
The Maldives government reported a surplus in its finances during the first two weeks of January 2025, according to a fiscal update from the Ministry of Finance. From 1 to 16 January, cumulative revenue and grants totalled MVR 725.0 million, while expenditure reached MVR 261.4 million, resulting in an overall surplus of MVR 463.6 million.
Revenue...
MMA’s Quarterly Business Survey: A Tale of Growth and Challenges
The Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) has published its Quarterly Business Survey for the fourth quarter of 2024, shedding light on economic activity across key sectors. The findings highlight a robust performance in tourism and transport, contrasted by challenges in the construction sector. Conducted from 25 December 2024 to 12 January 2025, the survey gathered insights from 114...
Deputy Speaker to Propose Bill to Regulate Internet and Media in Maldives
Deputy Speaker Ahmed Nazim has announced plans to introduce a bill aimed at regulating internet usage and media operations in the Maldives. The Dhiggaru MP, representing the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC), stated that the proposed legislation is being developed independently and is not part of the government’s legislative agenda.
According to an interview...
Majority of Companies Fined for Umrah Violations Yet to Pay
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has revealed that only three out of the 19 companies fined for violating Umrah pilgrimage regulations have settled their dues. These fines were imposed on 14 January, following cases of significant misconduct, including the misuse of funds meant for pilgrims.
Among the violations investigated, one company was found to...
Modi Reaffirms India’s Commitment to Stronger Maldives Ties
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with the Maldives, highlighting the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations.
This assurance came in response to a social media post by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, who extended warm Republic Day greetings to India as the nation celebrated its 75th Republic...
President Reaffirms Maldives’ Role as a Clean Energy Pioneer on Global Awareness Day
On the occasion of International Day of Clean Energy, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to advancing renewable energy and transitioning to sustainable energy systems. In a message shared to mark the day, the President highlighted the country’s ambitious goals and underscored the importance of collective action to combat climate change.
International...
China and Russia Drive Record-Breaking Start for Maldives Tourism in 2025
The Maldives has started 2025 with a significant surge in tourist arrivals, recording 169,424 visitors between 1st and 25th January—an increase of 10.9% compared to the same period in 2024. This growth is a testament to the country’s resilience and strategic efforts to adapt to global travel trends.
The revival of key Asian markets...
President Muizzu Highlights Strategic Maldives-India Partnership in Republic Day Message
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has extended his heartfelt felicitations to Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of India’s Republic Day. In separate letters addressed to the two leaders, President Muizzu conveyed his warmest greetings and best wishes on behalf of the Government and the people of the Maldives.
LATEST ARTICLES
Gov’t Unveils Mega Housing Development Initiative Across the Nation
The Maldivian government has unveiled an ambitious Public Housing Project to construct over 12,000 housing units across 57 islands. Spearheaded by the...
Foreign Minister Seeks to Enhance Maldives-Saudi Cooperation in Trade and Investment
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Maldives, Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, has commenced an official visit to the Kingdom of...
Maldives Seeks Closer Alignment with China in Message Marking Lunar New Year
On the occasion of the Chinese New Year, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu emphasised the Maldives' commitment to fortifying ties with the People’s...
High Input Costs Stagnate Growth in the Maldives Construction Sector
The Maldives construction sector continues to face significant challenges, as rising input prices and stagnant output prices hinder growth. According to the...
Maldives and Saudi Arabia Explore Opportunities in Real Estate Development
Minister of Construction, Housing & Infrastructure, Dr. Abdulla Mutththalib, has held a bilateral meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Municipalities and Housing,...
