A prestigious gathering of international and Maldivian scholars, finance professionals, and policymakers is set to take place in the heart of Malé as the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) hosts its second Research Conference on 16–17 November 2025. Held under the theme “Charting New Frontiers: Rethinking Economic Growth Beyond Tourism,” this year’s conference will focus on innovative, inclusive approaches to long-term national economic sustainability.
Recognizing the Maldives’ strong reliance on tourism, contributing over 21% of GDP and approximately 70% of foreign exchange earnings, the MMA Research Conference aims to foster robust dialogue and academic insight into diversifying the nation’s economic base. It will provide a vital platform for economists, development partners, and financial experts to explore new models of growth, particularly in the areas of Islamic finance and sustainable development.
As part of the preparations, The Somerset Hotel in Malé has been named the official accommodation partner, offering a comfortable and conveniently located venue for local and international delegates. Strategically situated in the capital, the hotel will support the seamless coordination of conference activities. In addition, national telecom provider Dhiraagu has been confirmed as the digital partner, ensuring advanced connectivity and digital infrastructure to facilitate knowledge-sharing during the sessions. Logistics for the event will be handled by eeezap, serving as the official logistical partner, reflecting the MMA’s commitment to high standards in event coordination.
One of the conference’s most anticipated panels is titled “Beyond Banking: Islamic Social Finance as a Tool for Social Transformation.” This session will explore how Islamic financial instruments such as zakat, waqf, and sadaqah can be effectively integrated into modern development strategies. These mechanisms offer promising tools for addressing socioeconomic challenges, promoting equitable growth, and fostering community resilience, goals that align with the Maldives’ broader development objectives under its national strategic frameworks.
The distinguished panel will include:
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Mr. Mohamed Zikri Mohamed Shairy, Director of Social Finance at Bank Islam Malaysia
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Professor Dr. Aishath Muneeza, Professor and Associate Dean at INCEIF University
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Mr. Hassan Kalaam, Chief Islamic Banking Officer at the Bank of Maldives
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Ms. Fathimath Nashwa Badeeu, Consultant at the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade
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Dr. Hamim Syahrum Ahmad Mokhtar, Deputy Director at the Islamic Financial Services Board
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Dr. Larifa Bibi Musafar Hameed, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Community, and Industrial Link at Universiti Islam Selangor
Their insights will highlight how values-based financial systems can complement conventional models, particularly in developing nations with deep-rooted religious and communal ties. The session is expected to generate policy-level discussions that could influence future legislative and fiscal reforms in the Maldives.
Through such initiatives, MMA continues to position itself at the forefront of shaping the economic narrative of the Maldives. By encouraging research-backed policymaking and embracing global best practices adapted to the local context, the conference supports the country’s aspiration for a resilient, inclusive, and diversified economy.
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