The Maldives has taken a further step in its digital transformation agenda with the launch of Maldives AI Lab, a national centre intended to build local capability in artificial intelligence, data and digital innovation.
The initiative, formally named the National AI and Data Competency Centre, was launched jointly by MINDCo and Bank of Maldives as part of the Maldives 2.0 Digital Transformation agenda. It was officially launched during the opening ceremony of Co.Lab 26 by Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan.
The launch of Maldives AI Lab is being tied to Co.Lab 26, a four-day national programme bringing together government leaders, private sector participants, technical experts and developers to help shape the country’s approach to artificial intelligence.
The first two days of Co.Lab 26 will focus on identifying and prioritising AI use cases based on public value, strategic alignment, data readiness, feasibility and responsible use. The final two days will feature a mentored hackathon, with an Applied AI Track focused on government use cases and a Fintech Innovation Track powered by BML’s Swipe API.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, BML CEO and Managing Director Mohamed Shareef said, “AI has the potential to improve how institutions understand customer needs, manage risks, deliver public services, detect fraud, strengthen cybersecurity, and make faster, more informed decisions. For financial institutions, technology is no longer simply supporting operations—it is shaping the future of customer experience, accessibility, and economic participation.”
MINDCo Managing Director Saeeda Umar said the establishment of a dedicated national centre would allow the Maldives to build AI and data capabilities suited to local needs.
“Establishment of this dedicated national center enables us to focus our efforts on building sovereign AI and data capabilities that are practical, culturally relevant, and aligned with local context. It moves us from scattered interest to a nationwide, structured delivery that will future-proof public investments, develop local talent, and improve the efficiency of public service delivery,” she said.
Minister Ali Ihusaan said the Maldives should not approach artificial intelligence as a passive recipient of global technological change.
“Maldives cannot have a future where AI just happens to us. Through Maldives AI Lab it will happen with us, by us, for us,” he said.
The Minister also referred to the importance of developing local technology talent, maintaining human accountability in public services, and strengthening public-private partnerships to improve government efficiency, support economic resilience and help transition the Maldives into what he described as a secure, intelligent economy.
According to the press release, Maldives AI Lab is designed to create lasting national capability in AI, data and digital innovation through collaboration across sectors. Outputs from the hackathon are expected to include early-stage prototypes, solution pathways and implementation concepts, which will be taken forward through a structured national delivery pipeline.
