Malé Area Mosques Redevelopment Set for Completion by End of 2026

Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has announced that the redevelopment of all mosques in the Malé area will be completed by the end of next year.

In an interview with state media, the Minister revealed that the Ministry is currently overseeing 70 projects worth over MVR 1 billion, with mosque and Islamic centre construction receiving the highest priority nationwide.

Highlighting the Dhidhdhoo Islamic Centre project, Minister Dr Shaheem noted that funding was initiated by the previous administration shortly before the presidential election without secured resources. He commended President Dr Mohamed Muizzu for prioritising the project and ensuring necessary funds for its timely completion.

The government has placed special emphasis on mosque development in the Greater Malé region, with several projects already underway supported by sponsors. Five new mosques in Hulhumalé, each accommodating between 1,500 and 3,000 worshippers, are slated to open within the next six months.

Next year also marks the 900th anniversary of the Maldives' conversion to Islam. To commemorate this milestone, the government plans to commence construction of the country's largest mosque in Hulhumalé, aligning the groundbreaking with the historic occasion.

Minister Dr Shaheem described the scale of mosque and Islamic centre development over the past two years as unprecedented, stating that completed projects will substantially improve Islamic services and facilities throughout the nation.