The Government of Maldives has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Al Rajhi Company to finance the development of the Hulhumalé Grand Mosque, marking a significant step forward in the advancement of a major national Islamic infrastructure project. The agreement reflects the continued strengthening of bilateral cooperation between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia, while also underscoring the Maldives’ commitment to developing institutions and facilities that serve both religious and public interests.
The MoU was signed by Minister of Islamic Affairs, H.E. Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, during a special ceremony held in Madinah Al Munawwarah as part of his official visit to Saudi Arabia. The agreement was signed on behalf of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs by Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, while H.E. Eng. Bandar bin Abdullah Al Rajhi, Chief Executive Officer of Al Rajhi Company, signed on behalf of the Saudi firm. The signing represents an important stage in the realization of one of the Maldives’ most anticipated religious development projects, bringing together national vision and international partnership in support of Islamic development.
Construction of the Hulhumalé Grand Mosque is planned to commence in conjunction with the 900th anniversary of the Maldives’ embrace of Islam, in line with the announcement made by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu in his Presidential Address. This timing gives the project deep national and historical significance, as the mosque is expected to stand not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of the country’s enduring Islamic identity and heritage. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to further strengthen the Islamic sector and expand facilities that contribute to the spiritual, educational, and cultural life of the nation.
The planned mosque complex will extend beyond a traditional prayer facility and is envisioned as a comprehensive development of national importance. In addition to the mosque itself, the complex will include waqf properties, commercial buildings, and dedicated parking facilities. Revenue generated from the waqf components of the development will be directed toward supporting Islamic affairs in the Maldives, creating a sustainable model that links infrastructure development with long-term institutional benefit. The project will also feature a Quran museum and other key facilities that are expected to serve educational, cultural, and community purposes, further enhancing the value of the complex for citizens, residents, and visitors alike.
Concept development for the mosque has already been completed, and detailed design work is currently underway. The project is being designed by international experts, reflecting the ambition to deliver a development of high architectural, functional, and symbolic value. Full financing for both the design and construction phases is being provided by the project’s financier, offering strong momentum for the initiative as it moves toward implementation. This level of support is expected to help ensure that the project progresses efficiently and in line with its national aspirations.
Upon completion, the Hulhumalé Grand Mosque is set to become one of the largest mosques in the Maldives. Strategically located between Hulhumalé Phase 2 and Phase 3, the mosque will occupy a highly prominent position within one of the country’s fastest-growing urban areas. Its location is expected to make it an accessible and central institution for worshippers while also allowing it to serve as a defining feature of Hulhumalé’s future urban and community landscape. With its scale, integrated facilities, and sustainable waqf model, the project is expected to make a lasting contribution to the religious and civic development of the Maldives.
Under the leadership of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, major initiatives in the Islamic sector continue to progress across the country. The signing of this MoU with Al Rajhi Company reflects the government’s ongoing focus on expanding Islamic infrastructure, supporting religious institutions, and creating projects that deliver enduring value for future generations. For the Maldives, the Hulhumalé Grand Mosque represents not only a major development project, but also a forward-looking investment in faith, community, heritage, and national development.
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