SIMDI Group Celebrates 24 Years of Excellence and Growth
SIMDI Group marked its 24th anniversary, celebrating nearly a quarter-century of growth, innovation, and commitment to the Maldivian market. The milestone was commemorated with a special gathering, recognising the dedication of the company’s employees and the partnerships that have shaped its success.
Reflecting on the journey, Managing Director Mishal Didi stated, “As we celebrate...
Report: When the Enforcers Become the Entrepreneurs
The role of the police and military is simple in theory. The police enforce the law, the military safeguards national security, and the government ensures that these institutions are funded and supported. Yet, in the Maldives and elsewhere, these fundamental duties have taken a back seat as law enforcement agencies morph into business entities—running property developments, trading...
Life Elevated by Design: The Art of Home at Bayfancy
A home is more than just a place to live—it’s a reflection of aspirations, a sanctuary for daily life, and a canvas for self-expression. At Bayfancy, each floor plan tells a thoughtfully crafted story, seamlessly blending aesthetics, functionality, and comfort. Designed to enhance modern living, every space offers a harmonious balance between practicality and personal style.
Ihavandhoo Fisheries Complex to Create 150 Jobs, Strengthen Industry
The Fisheries Complex being developed in HA. Ihavandhoo is expected to generate 150 jobs and enhance the Maldivian fishing industry, according to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. Speaking to the island’s residents, the President stated that the project, which is set to begin construction in May, will be completed within 18 months.
With a total...
Maldives and India Forge Ahead with Economic and Security Partnership
The first meeting of the High-Level Core Group (HLCG) between the Maldives and India was held in Male'. The meeting, convened to implement 'A Vision for Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership', took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Maldives, marking a new chapter in the cooperation between the two nations.
The...
Gov’t Pushes for Foreign Exchange Compliance as USD 25 Million Enters Banks
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that over USD 25 million has been deposited and exchanged with local banks within a month under the newly enacted Foreign Exchange Act. The President disclosed the figure during an address to residents of Hoarafushi, Haa Alif Atoll, as part of his visit to islands in the region.
New HPA Regulation Mandates Stricter Safety Measures for Fibre Workplaces
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has introduced new safety regulations for workplaces involved in fibre-related work, with non-compliant businesses facing fines of up to MVR 2,000. The Regulation on Safety Standards to be Maintained at Places that Do Fibre Work, published in the Gazette, aims to improve workplace safety and minimise risks to employees, the public, and the...
Rashu Expo 2025: A Tourism Spotlight Event
The Rashu Expo 2025, scheduled from 13th to 15th February 2025 at Hulhumalé Central Park, aims to bring together guesthouses, hotels, and resorts from the Greater Malé area to highlight the breadth of travel opportunities available in the Maldives.
Organised by The Travel Guys in collaboration with Housing Development Corporation (HDC), the event focuses on fostering connections between the hospitality...
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...
LATEST ARTICLES
SIMDI Group Celebrates 24 Years of Excellence and Growth
SIMDI Group marked its 24th anniversary, celebrating nearly a quarter-century of growth, innovation, and commitment to the Maldivian market. The milestone was...
Report: When the Enforcers Become the Entrepreneurs
The role of the police and military is simple in theory. The police enforce the law, the military safeguards national security, and...
Life Elevated by Design: The Art of Home at Bayfancy
A home is more than just a place to live—it’s a reflection of aspirations, a sanctuary for daily life, and a canvas...
Ihavandhoo Fisheries Complex to Create 150 Jobs, Strengthen Industry
The Fisheries Complex being developed in HA. Ihavandhoo is expected to generate 150 jobs and enhance the Maldivian fishing industry, according to...
Maldives and India Forge Ahead with Economic and Security Partnership
The first meeting of the High-Level Core Group (HLCG) between the Maldives and India was held in Male'. The meeting, convened to...
