Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has revealed that efforts are underway to collaborate with a Hollywood studio to produce a film highlighting the Maldives, aiming to boost investment opportunities in the country. The announcement was made during a press conference held at the President’s Office yesterday.
Minister Saeed emphasised the government’s commitment to promoting investment in the Maldives, in line with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s vision of establishing a robust creative economy. “We have reached out to the creators of Finding Nemo, and we have engaged with a startup company in Hollywood as part of these efforts,” Saeed stated. He highlighted that representatives from the Hollywood-based company have already visited the Maldives, meeting with various stakeholders to assess potential collaboration.
The Hollywood startup is scheduled to make a second visit to the Maldives, which is expected to further solidify plans for the film production. Minister Saeed expressed optimism that these efforts would serve as a global showcase for the Maldives, attracting both investors and tourists. “This initiative will help present investment opportunities in the Maldives to a much wider international audience,” he added.
The film project is one component of the government’s broader strategy to promote the creative economy as a vital sector, a priority under President Muizzu’s administration, he said. Saeed further noted that the Business Centre Corporation (BCC) is spearheading efforts to establish a creative economy hub to support local talent and attract international collaborations.
Members of the public have long called for the Maldives to be promoted as a tourist destination through films and animated features. However, until now, no substantial efforts had been made to capitalise on this potential. Minister Saeed’s announcement marks the first major step towards realising these aspirations.
