The return of the Maldives Financial Expo after a nine-year gap has drawn strong public interest, with around 16,000 visitors attending the three-day event in Hulhumalé.
Organised by the Maldives Monetary Authority as part of its 45th anniversary activities, Maldives Financial Expo 2026 brought together 38 exhibitors from across the financial sector. Participants included commercial banks, insurance companies, financial service providers, regulatory authorities, government institutions and fintech companies.
The expo was held under the theme “Empowering Sustainable Futures: Inclusion, Innovation, and Intelligence” and was officially inaugurated by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu at Hulhumalé Central Park on Thursday.
Over the three days, visitors were able to engage with financial institutions and service providers showcasing banking products, digital finance services, insurance options, payment technologies and investment-related services available in the Maldives.
The event also included financial literacy sessions, educational workshops, expert panel discussions and interactive demonstrations. These sessions focused on areas such as personal finance, digital financial services, entrepreneurship and financial planning.
According to MMA, the expo provided a platform for direct engagement between the public and institutions operating across the country’s financial system. The authority said the level of public participation reflected growing interest in financial literacy and the services shaping the sector.
A family-focused programme was also held during the expo, including a Children’s Evening with games, educational activities, entertainment and cartoon mascots. Evening performances were held by Time Academy of Performing Arts, Shalabee Ibrahim, Falih Duo, Heyvalla Boduberu, Saadha Thirees Asheh Boduberu and The Clio. Fireworks displays were also held on the final two evenings.
Lucky draws were conducted throughout the event, with prizes including a grand prize of MVR 50,000 sponsored by Maldives Islamic Bank and a grand prize of MVR 25,000 sponsored by Bank of Maldives. Other prizes included Apple iPads, commemorative MVR 5,000 banknotes issued by MMA, laptops, Apple AirPods, gift cards and a holiday package at Araiku Beach Village in HA. Hoarafushi.
The expo followed the inaugural Maldives Financial Sector Awards, which were launched by MMA to recognise institutions and individuals contributing to the development of the financial sector. The awards covered areas including financial inclusion, financial literacy, consumer empowerment, digital finance, SME finance, green and sustainable finance and emerging financial innovation. Former Governors and Vice Governors were also recognised for their service.
MMA said the expo created opportunities for greater awareness of financial planning, digital finance and financial inclusion, while enabling financial institutions to engage more directly with the public.
The event’s return after nine years marks a renewed effort to position the Maldives Financial Expo as a national platform for financial education, public engagement and industry collaboration.
