Author: Mohamed Reehaan

Maldives President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced plans to establish a land connection between Gaafu Dhaalu atoll Gadhdhoo and Maavarulu Airport. He made the announcement on Wednesday, February 21, 2024. President Dr. Muizzu made the remarks while speaking with the residents of Gadhdhoo during his visit; which is part of his ongoing tour of the atoll along with Fuvahmulah City and Addu City. Speaking at GDh. Atoll Education Center, President Dr. Muizzu underscored the importance for multiple developmental initiatives to facilitate the growth of the island. He also emphasized on land reclamation as a critical concern committed to launching the…

The Maldives Government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Sri Lankan Government on Wednesday, February 21, 2024 towards enhanced cooperation. The two governments have sealed the MoU laying “groundwork for enhanced cooperation” and mutual assistance in “customs matters”. The agreements were signed between Commission General of Customs of the Maldives Yoosuf Maniu and the Director General of Sri Lankan Customs Mr. P.B.S.C. Nonis at a ceremony held for the occasion. While the two countries have entered into agreement on strengthening cooperation on customs related matters, international carriers often reach Sri Lanka before berthing in the Maldives. The…

State Trading Organization (STO) assures uninterrupted supply of onion to the Maldives. The largest state-owned enterprise (SOE) has made the affirmation following India’s decision to remove Maldives from the list of countries to which it extends onion export quota. Several Indian news outlets reported that the new export quota list for onion included Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Bahrain, Bhutan, and Nepal with Maldives excluded from the list. Earlier in December 2023, India had temporarily halted all exports of onion, effective until March 2024. Despite this, through a special provision, India continued to supply onion to neighboring countries which included the…

China maintains dominance with near 50,000 arrivals as of February 19, 2024. According to the Ministry of Tourism, the total arrivals from China reached 49,188 by the review date, which is 14.4% of the total tourist arrivals so far this year. Italy is now in second place with 32,809 arrivals which is 9.6% of the total arrivals while Russia has slipped to third spot with 32,664 arrivals (9.5%). UK is maintaining its fourth rank spot with 30,355 year-to-date arrivals while India is fifth with 23,241 arrivals. The statistics confirm a total arrival figure of 342,741 by the review date which…

Business Center Corporation (BCC) unveils new logo specifically designed to represent home-based food producers and vendors in the Maldives. Maldives First Lady Sajidha Mohamed officially launched the logo at a ceremony held to mark the occasion at the Islamic Center. The new logo was developed to increase public confidence in the safety of home-produced foods by indicating adherence to Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) standards. Speaking at the event, First Lady stressed on the potential of the initiative to empower and strengthen home-based businesses; especially those led by women. To use the logo, home-based food producers must apply through…

Maldivian and JA Manafaru has entered into an exclusive partnership for domestic air transfer services from Velana International Airport to Haa Alifu Atoll. The national airline said this collaboration aims to increase accessibility for travelers, and elevate the travel experiences. “The partnership underscores Maldivian’s commitment to providing the tourism industry with quality and accessible travel solutions country-wide through its extensive domestic network,” said Maldivian.

Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy officiated the Energy Road Map Stakeholder Consultation Workshop on Monday, February 19, 2024. Minister Thoriq Ibrahim launched the workshop which is organized by the ministry in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The consultation workshop is focused on updating the energy roadmap first published in 2020. A key highlight of the workshop was the launching ceremony for the Accelerating Sustainable System Development Using Renewable Energy (ASSURE) project. The ASSURE project aims to expedite the government’s nationwide efforts in development sustainable systems using renewable energy means instead of conventional power output.

Angsana Velavaru has been nominated in two categories of the 2024 Travel + Leisure Awards. Additionally, the resort, a contender for the Best Hotels in the Maldives, secured a nomination in the Resort Pools and Resorts for Families categories at the 2024 Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific as well. The 113-villa slip with an all-inclusive dining experience offers a “harmonious blend of comfort, privacy, space, and style.” The resort also features several dining options from authentic Maldivian flavors, rich Indian cuisine, flavorful Asian dishes, and elegant international fare.

Maldives Customs Service (MCS) on Monday, February 19, 2024, announced the introduction of four new services. According to Customs, these four new services have been launched under the #Hafthaa14 (Week-14) initiative launched at the get-go of the current presidential administration led by Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. “We are excited to introduce innovative solutions to elevate user experience and drive efficiency” said Customs on its official X handle. The gatekeeper agency for imports and exports of the Maldives has introduced the following services; Online Cash Declaration Courier Cargo Management System Advance E-Agency Approval Online Statistics for Traders

Regional Airports Company Limited (RACL) has begun effective use of the new apron developed at Hanimaadhoo International Airport. The new apron was officially put into the airport’s effective operations on February 18, 2024 with the landing of Maldivian Airline’s flight in morning. RACL Managing Director said the apron, while not part of the original developmental scope of the airport, was developed according to the instructions provided by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu; as a means of improving the airport’s revenue. The new apron will be marketed as a jet parking facility, while the area would be used as an isolation bay…