Saudi Arabia’s Al-Imam University Donates 64,000 Books to Maldives, Cementing Educational Alliance

Al-Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University of Saudi Arabia has donated 64,000 books to Islamic libraries across the Maldives, reinforcing the educational and diplomatic ties between the two nations. The donation, presented during a formal ceremony at the Islamic Centre in Malé, marks a significant contribution to the Maldives’ educational and cultural landscape.

The books were handed over by Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to the Maldives, Yahya Hassan Al-Qahtani, and Dr Saleh bin Sulaiman Al-Araja, director of the university. Receiving the donation on behalf of the government was Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, Minister of Islamic Affairs.

Speaking at the event, Minister Shaheem described the donation as a reflection of the “fraternal relations” between the two countries. He noted that the initiative affirms Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting students and researchers in the Maldives and to fostering intellectual growth rooted in Islamic tradition.

The minister also acknowledged the role of the university’s local affiliate, the Institute of Islamic and Arabic Sciences, in facilitating the donation. His remarks extended to the Saudi government, with specific recognition of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and senior officials of the Saudi embassy in Malé.

Ambassador Al-Qahtani and Director Al-Araja addressed the gathering as well, each highlighting the importance of scholarly collaboration and the enduring ties between the two nations.

To honour the contribution, the Islamic Affairs Ministry presented a commemorative certificate to Al-Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University. The ministry described the donation as a “significant step forward” in its broader initiative to establish Islamic libraries throughout the country. It is also expected to support the fulfilment of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s pledge to expand access to Islamic educational resources.