The Minister of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has announced that the Maldives is undertaking the highest number of Islamic‑related projects in a short timeframe in the nation’s history, with more than 81 initiatives currently underway.
Answering questions from lawmakers during the Parliament sitting on 4 August, Minister Shaheem said the surge reflects priorities set by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, who has earmarked the construction of Islamic centres, mosques and Waqf buildings as key development goals. The Minister noted that the government is not only launching new projects but also reviving those stalled by the previous administration.
“Prior to and during the last Ramadan we opened nearly 20 mosques, including those left incomplete by the former government,” he said, noting such rapid progress despite global conflicts and economic headwinds.
Minister Shaheem identified the main causes of earlier delays, highlighting that the previous administration initiated numerous projects without securing budget allocations and awarded contracts to firms lacking sufficient capacity. To counter this, the Ministry is now arranging the necessary funding and ensuring that only qualified contractors are engaged, he added.
He also provided specific updates on two high‑profile mosque projects in Baa Atoll.
According to the Minister, the 300‑capacity B. Kamadhoo Mosque awarded to SAS E Construction Pvt Ltd in November 2022, where the site clearance was completed on 21 June after the old mosque remained operational through Eid, as requested by the Kamadhoo Council. The Qibla direction was set on 26 June, and concrete pillar work began on 7 July is on track for completion within the stipulated 540 days and will include separate prayer and ablution areas, a library, classrooms and a solar‑energy system, he added.
On the 500‑capacity B. Kudarikilu Mosque, contracted to Fenaka Corporation, he explained that the administrative restructuring within Fenaka delayed the start, but practical work is slated to begin on 15 August, with Fenaka assuring a 365‑day completion timeline. The Minister pledged full cooperation to keep the schedule on track.
In addition, Minister Shaheem revealed that residents of Rasdhoo, Alifu Alifu atoll successfully lobbied for an expansion of the planned mosque from 500 to 1,000 people. Design adjustments have been made and the required USD 1.62 million in funding has now been secured.
He also reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to see all ongoing Islamic projects to completion, underscoring that the current pace of development marks a historic milestone for the Maldives.