AGP Executive Report

Foreign Affairs: Maldives condemned Israeli ministers’ calls for forcibly displacing Palestinians from Gaza, saying it violates international law and urged UN Security Council action. State Economy & Utilities: President Muizzu says the government will buy back Dhiraagu shares to raise its stake to 51%, while also planning to dissolve Fenaka and merge it into STELCO, and dissolve RDC by merging it into MTCC. Courts & Governance: The Civil Court cancelled a midnight interim order in the Lagoons Sports Club election dispute, saying it was issued without proper basis and after an enforced judgment. Public Safety & Media: Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission says phone calls must be explicitly disclosed before being broadcast live; police leadership also reiterated that crime reduction is a shared responsibility. Climate & Diplomacy: Foreign ministers held a phone call on Nepal floods and climate challenges; Maldives also backed stronger climate cooperation with Bangladesh. Tourism & Environment: Maldives expanded tourism capacity by 1,000+ beds to 68,544; Dhiraagu partnered with SEED for ocean literacy; BML set a Guinness record with 314 people snorkeling at once. Health & Tech: ADK Hospital carried out Maldives’ first robotic-assisted knee replacement surgeries.

Weather & Safety: Maldives Meteorological Service warns El Niño effects are expected to peak in November, with reduced rainfall likely until February and above-average sea temperatures that could hit fishing—urging tourism, agriculture and fisheries to prepare. Trade Finance: Government signed a five-year USD 1.5B framework with the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) to mobilize trade financing for essential imports/exports and support SMEs via local financial institutions. Police & Governance: Home Minister Ali Ihusaan says police must have “no room for corruption,” while Police Commissioner Ahmed Mohamed stresses crime reduction is a shared public responsibility. Media Rules: Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission says callers must be explicitly informed before phone calls are broadcast live, following a Raajje TV incident. Justice Update: High Court lifted a passport seizure order for a Sri Lankan accused of embezzlement, citing lack of sufficient evidence. Disaster Preparedness: NDMA received a permanent land plot in Hulhumalé Phase II for its HQ, emergency operations and shelters. Tourism Capacity: Maldives added 1,069 beds since end-2025 to reach 68,544 beds as of Sept 5, with guesthouse arrivals also rising. Ocean Literacy: Dhiraagu partnered with SEAD to expand ocean literacy for youth across Hulhumalé and islands. Health & Medicines: State Pharma installed a digital stock system for real-time pharmacy visibility and launched a 24-hour hotline; IGMH opened applications for its 13th internship round. Sports: Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy kicked off at Sultans (Sept 4–11). Regional Links: Bangladesh and Maldives reaffirmed climate cooperation ahead of COP31 youth programming.

Tourism Capacity Boost: Maldives has added 1,069 beds since end-2025, bringing total accommodation capacity to 68,544 beds as of Sept 5, with resorts still leading (45,891 beds) and guesthouses close behind (17,268). Guesthouse Demand: Guesthouse stays have topped 300,000 this year (317,178), about 22% of all arrivals, showing more visitors are choosing local stays. Ocean Literacy Push: Dhiraagu partnered with SEAD to expand ocean literacy for children and youth, using connectivity support and hands-on learning across Hulhumalé, K. Kaashidhoo and B. Goidhoo. Health & Medicines: State Pharma installed a digital stock system to show pharmacy medicine availability in real time, with public access expected within two months, plus a 24-hour hotline (1505). Medical Training: IGMH opened applications for the 13th medical internship round, increasing slots to 24 and starting next month with an MVR 10,000 allowance. Disaster Readiness: NDMA received a permanent land plot in Hulhumalé Phase II for its HQ, emergency operations center, warehouse and temporary shelter facilities. Court Update: The High Court lifted a passport seizure order for a Sri Lankan man accused in an embezzlement case, citing lack of sufficient evidence. Sports & Community: The 14th Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy is underway at Sultans, while the PS Relay returns Sept 12 in Hulhumalé after filling up fast. Drug Case: An Indian man was arrested for smuggling suspected drugs into Maldives after customs found THC-positive packets in his luggage.

Esports Push: President Dr Mohamed Muizzu pledged to formally recognize Maldivian esports achievements and set up clearer pathways for young players, including plans for an esports centre and related youth facilities. Tourism Snapshot: Guesthouse stays topped 300,000 this year—317,178 visitors, about 22% of total arrivals—while resorts still lead with 73.5% of tourists; the sector continues to feel pressure from Middle East air-route disruptions. Thilafushi Port Shift: Maldives Ports Limited signed Phase 1 of the Thilafushi Port relocation with China Harbour Engineering Company, moving ahead with design and quay-wall work and ending an earlier joint understanding with India. Capital Markets Plan: The Maldives Stock Exchange and Securities Depository unveiled a 2026–2030 strategy to help SMEs raise funds and expand listings, including an anchor tourism listing target by 2027. Drugs Crackdown: Police arrested nine people in Malé over suspected drug trafficking and sale, with all suspects reported as Bangladeshi nationals. Regional Aid: Muizzu announced MVR 1 million for Nepal’s disaster relief fund after deadly floods and landslides. Diplomacy: Maldives received credentials from 18 new ambassadors to the UAE, including the Maldives’ own new envoy.

Greater Malé Connectivity: India’s MEA calls the 6.74km Greater Male Connectivity Project a “stellar example” of support, noting the 2km sea-bridge segment was completed and President Muizzu walked it on Aug 30, with the full project expected to finish by 2026. Fisheries Finance: The Fisheries Ministry says MVR 14.5 million has been disbursed in loans to 113 fishermen since end-August via the Masveriya Portal, enabling remote applications for equipment, vessel support, housing and education financing. Drug Crackdown: Police arrested two men in Gaafu Alif Maamendhoo after a court-authorised search seized 17.7kg of suspected narcotics, with trafficking charges pending as investigations continue. Diplomacy: President Muizzu welcomed credentials from 18 new ambassadors to the UAE, including the Maldives’ own new envoy, as bilateral ties are set to deepen. Aid to Nepal: Muizzu pledged MVR 1 million to Nepal’s disaster relief fund following deadly floods and landslides. Tourism & Business: Maldives Ports Limited signed an MoU with China Harbour Engineering Company for Phase 1 of Thilafushi Port, replacing a prior plan with India and raising strategic concerns.

Diplomacy & Aid: President Dr Mohamed Muizzu pledged MVR 1 million to Nepal’s Disaster Relief Fund after deadly floods and landslides, reaffirming Maldives’ regional solidarity. Foreign Missions: Maldives President Sheikh Mohamed welcomed 18 new UAE ambassadors and the Maldives’ newly appointed UAE envoy Thoriq Ibrahim vowed to strengthen bilateral ties. Drugs & Policing: Police charged a man from Milandhoo over alleged diamorphine trafficking (61.1205g) and also arrested nine Bangladeshis in Malé in a drug raid; in another case, two suspects were arrested in Maamendhoo after 17.7kg of suspected narcotics were seized. Finance & Fisheries: The Ministry of Fisheries said MVR 14.5m in loans was disbursed to 113 fishermen via the Masveriya Portal. Connectivity & Infrastructure: MEA briefed progress on the $500m Greater Malé Connectivity Project under the “Neighbourhood First” policy, while Maldives awarded Phase 1 of Thilafushi Port to a Chinese company. Money Rules: The Maldives Monetary Authority raised minimum capital requirements for payment service providers to bolster financial system security.

Drug Bust: Maldives Police arrested two men in Maamendhoo after a court-authorised search seized 17.7kg of suspected narcotics; both suspects are alleged key figures in a smuggling network and were remanded for five days as investigations continue. Financial Rules: The Maldives Monetary Authority raised minimum capital requirements for payment service providers, with several categories jumping to as high as MVR 2,000,000, aiming to keep the sector financially strong and reduce service disruption risk. Local Governance: Kinbidhoo Island Council introduced an MVR 1,200 fee for residents who leave the island and transfer their registry elsewhere, starting Thursday, to curb migration and protect limited resources. Child Protection: Police arrested a father in the south for allegedly sexually assaulting and abusing his 13-year-old daughter; a separate case also saw a 28-year-old Indian man arrested over alleged abuse of a three-year-old girl. Health Infrastructure: The Health Ministry laid the foundation for an ADB-funded Central Cold Chain Facility in Hulhumalé to strengthen vaccine and temperature-sensitive medical storage. Tax Recovery: MIRA recovered MVR 3.5 billion in outstanding revenue in the first six months, with total unpaid taxes at MVR 14.5 billion by end-June. Media Training: Shaheeb Media concluded a 10-day sensitization program for 25 media/PR officers, stressing verification and protecting dignity and reputations in reporting.

Financial Regulation: The Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) has raised minimum capital requirements for payment service providers (PSPs), boosting capital levels across electronic money issuance, remittances, payment initiation, and account information services to better protect the financial system and ensure continuity. Public Safety & Crime: Police arrested a father in the southern islands over alleged sexual assault and abuse of his 13-year-old daughter, while another case saw an Indian man arrested over alleged assault of a three-year-old girl. Police Service Day: Police marked Police Service Day by thanking residents for road-safety compliance, handing out helmets, and recognising safe practices at construction sites and balconies. Health Infrastructure: The Health Ministry broke ground on an ADB-funded Central Cold Chain Facility in Hulhumalé to strengthen vaccine and temperature-sensitive medical storage. Tax Recovery: MIRA recovered MVR 3.5 billion in outstanding revenue in the first six months, with total unpaid taxes at MVR 14.5 billion by end-June. Dengue Alert Abroad: Hawaiʻi wastewater tested positive for dengue virus, though no active cases were reported there. Local Administration: Kinbidhoo Island Council introduced a MVR 1,200 fee for residents who leave and transfer their registry to another island, aiming to curb migration. Scams Watch: Police reported about MVR 2 million lost to scams in August, with currency exchange fraud among the biggest categories. Tourism Update: August saw the highest tourist arrivals since the Middle East war disruptions, with China and Russia leading source markets. Stats & Appointments: Dr. Ahmed Riyaz was appointed Chief Statistician, and Maldives recorded 2,538 births and 813 deaths in the first six months. Tech Disruption: A major global AI outage reportedly hit services like ChatGPT and Claude, including users in the Maldives.

Sanctions & Trade: The Wall Street Journal reports Maldives airports are being used as a transit hub for hundreds of millions of dollars in restricted goods headed to Russia, including dual-use microchips and aircraft parts, with cargo reportedly moved through Malé without formal entry. Tourism Demand: Yandex Ads research says Russian-speaking demand is becoming more year-round, with Russian arrivals up 18% in the first half of 2026 and hotel bookings via Yandex Travel up 233%. Security & Scams: Police say about MVR 2 million was lost to scams in August; e-commerce fraud led (79 cases) and currency-exchange scams followed (43), with MVR 1.13 million recovered. Tourism Performance: August saw the highest tourist arrivals since the Middle East war began, with 1.4 million visitors reported so far this month-to-date and China still the top source market. Housing Push: The government is carrying out 113 housing projects nationwide to tackle shortages, including 21 in the Male region. Public Health: Maldives is listed among countries reporting higher dengue numbers, after Hawaii wastewater tested positive for dengue virus (no active cases tracked there). Local Life: Police report a motorcycle crash in Hulhumalé involving injuries to the rider and passenger after a child attempted to cross.

Sanctions & Trade: The Wall Street Journal reports Maldives-linked intermediaries helped move hundreds of millions of dollars in restricted goods to Russia via Malé, including dual-use microchips and aircraft parts, with cargo reportedly kept in the airport transit area before being flown to Moscow. Politics & Rights: The Human Rights Commission of Maldives is investigating an opposition MDP complaint over Hirimaradhoo being declared uninhabited, after residents say services and clarity were lost. Infrastructure & Diplomacy: President Muizzu praised the India-backed Thilamale Bridge under the Greater Male Connectivity Project, calling it a symbol of enduring Maldives-India ties. Tax & Tourism: MIRA says a new GST amendment will bring foreign tour operators and overseas tourism businesses into the GST system. Economy & Fisheries: Former finance minister Ibrahim Ameer told an MDP rally fishermen are catching less fish and that people are poorer than under previous administrations. Weather & Climate Risk: Male’ hit 39.1°C feels-like, with MET warning El Niño could raise heat stress and bleaching risk. Road Safety: Police reported road accidents make up 23.9% of cases this year, with multiple recent tragedies in Greater Malé. Tourism & Lifestyle: Zipline Maldives won a “World’s Most Beautiful Zipline” award; COMO Maalifushi announced a Maldives surfer talk; and new small-group Maldives tours are launching.

UPI Growth & Travel Payments: India’s UPI hit 24.51 billion transactions in August (+22% y/y) worth Rs 29.82 lakh crore (+20% y/y), and it’s now accepted in 11 countries including the Maldives—though merchant acceptance still varies by location. Climate Diplomacy in the Pacific: Australia is defending its pre-COP31 push in Fiji and Tuvalu despite low confirmed turnout, with Maldives among leaders listed so far; the UN warns the 1.5°C target could be breached within five years. Halal Tourism Push: President Muizzu met the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development to expand halal tourism, building on earlier plans for incentives and designated islands. Police Crackdown on Illegal Forex: Maldives Police launched a task force probe, freezing accounts and detaining six foreign nationals over alleged unauthorised currency trading. Road Safety: Police data shows road accidents are 23.9% of reported cases this year, with 2,029 incidents logged. Tourism & Culture: COMO Maalifushi will host Maldivian surfer Rishtha Shuja for “The Wave is Hers,” while Ayada Maldives unveiled its “Sea, Fire, Light and Magic” festive programme. Sports & Marine Conservation: Four Seasons Maldives returns the Surfing Champions Trophy with a six-surfer field, and Kandooma’s Manta Month spotlights manta-ray conservation and tourism value.

Illegal Forex Crackdown: Maldives Police set up a task force to tip off on unlicensed foreign exchange dealers, freezing accounts linked to Naid Investments and launching searches in Malé. Arrests Over FX Trading: Six foreign nationals were detained in connection with alleged unauthorised currency trading, with police citing large transaction totals and warning that using someone else’s bank account can bring legal trouble. Child Safety Probe: Police are investigating whether a mother had any involvement in a case where a father is accused of sexually abusing and recording abuse of a three-year-old. Bridge Milestone: The Thilamale Bridge is designed for about 120 years of durability, with major maintenance expected only once every ~20 years, according to AFCONS. Public Trust in Police: President Muizzu urged a stronger, more capable police service to protect public confidence at home and abroad. Tourism & Regulation: MIRA asked TGST-registered businesses to report foreign parties selling tourist beds, as GST rules tighten for offshore sellers. MIFCO Leadership: Abdulla Faiz was appointed Chairman of MIFCO. Cat Island Plan: Government is exploring a dedicated “Cat Island” for feline care, alongside expanding the Olhuhiyaa shelter. Business/Local Courts: A former Salon Maldives employee was fined over MVR 113,000 for resigning without required notice.

Offshore Resources Regulation: Maldives Cabinet has moved to create a dedicated legal framework for exploring and extracting oil, gas, minerals and other non-living marine resources in its maritime zones, with a special bill to set permit procedures, ownership rules and regulation. FX Crackdown: Maldives Police froze Naid Investment Pvt Ltd accounts and searched its Maafannu office after allegations of unlicensed foreign currency trading, warning enforcement will intensify against black-market FX activity. Forex Network Detentions: Police also detained six expatriates tied to an alleged unauthorized forex exchange network, with authorities saying MVR 54.4m and USD 1.63m moved through personal and local business accounts over three years. Tourism Awards Buzz: The Halcyon Private Isles Maldives (Autograph Collection) won Best Water Villa Resort at the TTM Awards 2026, while The Standard, Maldives (Hyatt) took Best Beach Resort at the same gala. Travel Trade Calendar: ITB India 2026 opened in Mumbai for three days, with Visit Maldives Corporation listed among participating brands. Wellness & Resorts Updates: Four Seasons Resort Maldives unveiled ŪRJĀ Naturopathy Island, and Vakkaru Maldives introduced a new Overwater Villa with Pool ahead of TTM Maldives. Local Incident: A 27-year-old Bangladeshi man was found dead at a migrant workers’ accommodation in Thinadhoo; police say the case is under investigation.

Foreign Exchange Crackdown: Police and Immigration detained six expats over an alleged large-scale forex network, with authorities saying MVR 54.4m and USD 1.63m moved through personal accounts over three years. Tourism Dollar Rules: President Dr. Muizzu ratified the Foreign Exchange Bill, keeping the 40% requirement for resorts to convert USD via local banks, while insisting resort staff salaries can still be paid in USD; he also said a full shift to a Rufiyaa-based system will take decades. Political Pushback: The MDP vowed “direct political action” against the 40% exchange requirement, linking it to economic damage and calling for Muizzu’s resignation. Energy & Resources: Cabinet approved a legal framework for oil, gas and minerals exploration and extraction in Maldives maritime zones, with a new bill expected to set permits and ownership rules. Tax Overhaul: Muizzu ratified amendments to the Tax Administration Act and GST rules, including GST on services by foreign tour operators and travel agents. Education & Culture: Maldives and Japan signed an MVR 14.7m grant agreement for scholarships, and MNU inked an MoU with Sri Lanka’s CINEC for maritime education. Public Safety: Police urged people not to share a video of a child who fell from an Amaan Udhares building; they also called for reporting littering in Malé harbor.

Foreign Relations: President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu sent Malaysia Independence Day greetings, stressing five decades of friendship and pledging deeper economic cooperation. Diplomacy: Muizzu appointed Jameela Ali Khalid as the Maldives’ new High Commissioner to the UK, as the post had been vacant since April. FX Policy: Muizzu ratified the Foreign Exchange Bill, requiring resorts to convert 40% of USD income via the Maldives Monetary Authority and banning publication of rates above the MMA reference price. Infrastructure: The President inspected the Thilamalé Bridge progress under the Greater Malé Connectivity Project, calling it a landmark of Maldives-India ties and a push to finish major works faster. Public Services: Maldives Immigration extended expired passport validity free of charge until 30 June 2027 due to booklet delays, with emergency passports available. Safety & Crime: Police arrested two in the Maduvvari drug case and ordered remand for both; a 16-year-old fell from a building in Hulhumalé Phase 2 and is receiving treatment. Sports: Dhiraagu Male’ Open 2026 concluded with 420+ swimmers, awarding top athletes Ayesha Zayah Hussain and Ibrahim Yuaan Shameem.

Immigration & Travel Docs: Maldives Immigration amended passport rules to let the Controller General waive fees for temporary travel documents for a set period, effective Sunday, as passport stock delays push a temporary validity extension. Traffic Safety: Police fined and suspended a motorcyclist after a viral reckless ride on Sinamalé Bridge; the vehicle was towed for 30 days, following similar bridge enforcement. Emergency Response: MNDF firefighters handled 16 emergencies last week, mostly fires, including a gas cylinder explosion injuring four and a fatal gas leak case in Malé. Road Crime & Accidents: A man in Fuvahmulah was remanded for 15 days after a hijacking-linked crash sequence; separately, a nine-year-old is in critical condition after a Hulhumalé Phase II accident. Infrastructure Watch: President Muizzu inspected the Thilamalé Bridge progress, calling it a landmark of Maldives-India friendship and a sign the government is speeding major projects. Engineering Push: Muizzu announced plans for a state-of-the-art engineering laboratory funded outside the state budget, covering multiple engineering fields plus AI and robotics. Sports: Maldives’ FIBA Asia Cup pre-qualifier campaign ended in Group B after a heavy loss to Palestine; Kazakhstan also advanced. Insurance Regulation: MMA published two insurance regulations for public comment and finalisation, including a required MVR 2 million security deposit for insurers.