President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has returned to Malé after concluding a multi-island tour of North Ari Atoll, where a series of infrastructure, housing, education, health, and tourism-related projects were announced.
The visits, which spanned Bodufolhudhoo, Thoddoo, Rasdhoo, Ukulhas, Mathiveri, Feridhoo, Maalhos, and Himandhoo, centred on community consultations and project signings with island councils, Women’s Development Committees, and senior representatives of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs).
Housing emerged as a key focus. In Bodufolhudhoo, the President confirmed that funding for 50 housing units will be included in the 2026 budget, with construction scheduled to begin next year. Meanwhile, in Ukulhas, the government pledged to resolve land shortages through reclamation works, with 250 plots already earmarked for allocation and a 50-unit housing project set to be contracted within the year.
Health and education projects featured prominently across the atoll. In Thoddoo, the 30-bed health centre under construction will be upgraded into a hospital, incorporating an operating theatre and intensive care unit. The island will also host the Maldives National University’s Faculty of Agriculture and Food Science, underscoring Thoddoo’s role as a leading agricultural hub. Agreements were also signed for the development of Thoddoo School infrastructure and a southern bridge. In Rasdhoo, plans were unveiled for a new three-storey building at the Atoll Education Centre, including modern facilities such as a skills lab, library, and multipurpose hall.
Tourism-related developments were also highlighted. Thoddoo residents were assured that scheduled seaplane services would commence in February next year, supported by a new dedicated platform, while in Rasdhoo, the President reiterated that Madivaru lagoon would be preserved and developed as both a community space and a local tourism destination. Picnic areas and supporting infrastructure will be created as part of this initiative.
The banking and financial sector saw expansion during the tour, with the introduction of Bank of Maldives US Dollar ATM services on all inhabited islands of North Ari Atoll. In Thoddoo, the foundation stone was laid for a new BML branch, reflecting efforts to expand financial access across the atoll.
Sports and community infrastructure were also addressed, with agreements signed for the development of sports complexes in Rasdhoo and Ukulhas, and new police station projects inaugurated in Maalhos, Himandhoo, Feridhoo, and Thoddoo. Road development, harbour projects, and coastal protection measures were discussed with several councils, alongside commitments to expedite pending works.
The President noted during his engagements that the airport under construction in Mathiveri would benefit not only the atoll but also the wider national tourism sector, given its role in improving connectivity for resorts and guesthouses.
The government delegation, which included Cabinet ministers and SOE officials, provided updates on ongoing projects and timelines for upcoming initiatives.
The tour concluded with the President reiterating his administration’s commitment to continue consultations with island communities and to align development projects with local needs.
