Entrepreneurs and content creators have welcomed the introduction of PayPal services in the Maldives through Ooredoo Maldives’ m-Faisaa platform, describing the move as a major step forward for freelancers, small businesses and the country's digital economy.
For years, access to PayPal has been one of the most requested services among Maldivians engaged in online business, content creation and freelance work. While local businesses have increasingly expanded into international markets, the inability to directly receive payments from overseas customers has remained a significant challenge.
The arrangement allowing Maldivians to access PayPal services through m-Faisaa was officially established on 15 June following efforts by the government and discussions held with PayPal to facilitate the service in the Maldives.
The issue was also highlighted by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, who stated in this year's Presidential Address that the absence of a robust online payment system was one of the biggest obstacles facing the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the country.
Parliamentarian Ahmed Azaan Marzooq described the introduction of PayPal as a significant achievement for the Maldives’ digital sector. He said the service fulfils an important pledge of President Muizzu and will create new opportunities for freelancers, independent creators and small businesses to connect with global markets.
Meanwhile, some content creators have said the service was fully operational after testing the platform. The creators advised users that the email address linked to their PayPal account must match the email address registered with their m-Faisaa account in order to use the service successfully.
According to Ooredoo, the service will enable freelancers, self-employed individuals and businesses to receive payments from international customers directly through PayPal, helping them expand beyond the local market and participate more confidently in the global digital economy.
The government has also stated that efforts will continue to introduce additional international financial services to further support business growth, innovation and digital commerce in the Maldives.