As part of the major strategic project to relocate the Maldives’ primary commercial port to Thilafushi, the Government has announced an invitation for consultancy firms to undertake the detailed design of the terminal and all associated facilities.
This initiative stands as one of the most significant economic infrastructure projects in the Greater Male’ Region. Notably, key components of Phase 1 were contracted to China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) in February 2026.
The decision to relocate the 40-year-old Male’ Commercial Harbour to Thilafushi represents a pivotal policy shift by the current administration. By reversing the previous administration’s plan to develop the port in Gulhifalhu and instead choosing Thilafushi, an island designated for industrial use, the new port will benefit from four times the capacity of the existing facility.
Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has already secured the necessary land and commenced preliminary preparations at the site.
Under the “Local Harbour Relief Project”, the government is seeking experienced local and international firms to develop comprehensive detailed designs for the port’s infrastructure. The scope of work includes the design of the main port terminal, container yards, administrative office buildings, a control tower, a gate complex, maintenance workshops, and staff support supplies.
Moreover, the consultancy service encompasses structural and architectural designs for all buildings, the development of container stocking areas and port road networks, and the planning of essential utility services. Interested parties have been invited to submit their Expression of Interest (EOI) letters by 13:00hrs on March 25, 2026.
The new port is poised to become a substantial facility designed to meet the country’s requirements for the next three decades.
During the 2026 presidential address, Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu affirmed that the port operations are expected to transition to Thilafushi by November 2027.
The president highlighted that this relocation will significantly enhance efficacy by reducing the cargo clearance time for vessels from seven days to just 48 hours, which in turn will reduce the overall cost of importing goods.
The Maldives government anticipates that the operationalization of the new port will lead to a reduction in the price of consumer goods, providing direct benefits to the public.
Additionally, MPL has indicated that the current port area in Maafannu will be vacated for urban development purposes once the new facility is complete.