Ooredoo Maldives has officially introduced PayPal services to the Maldives, marking a major advancement in the country’s digital payment ecosystem and delivering on a key commitment of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to expand access to modern e-wallet and online payment solutions. The service was formally inaugurated by President Muizzu at Barceló Nasandhura Malé, in a ceremony that reflected the government’s broader ambition to strengthen digital transformation, enhance financial accessibility, and create new opportunities for individuals and businesses across the country.
The introduction of PayPal to the Maldivian market is expected to open new possibilities for freelancers, entrepreneurs, small businesses, and professionals seeking greater participation in the international digital economy. With secure and globally recognised payment services now becoming available locally, Maldivians are better positioned to receive payments, connect with international clients, and engage more effectively in cross-border commerce. The development is also expected to support a growing generation of digitally skilled youth and independent professionals who increasingly rely on international platforms to offer services, conduct business, and build sustainable income streams.
Speaking at the launch, PayPal Vice President and General Manager Amir Valliani highlighted the significance of connecting individuals and businesses through a secure platform, describing the introduction of the service as an important step in supporting the administration’s “Maldives 2.0” vision. He noted that the availability of PayPal in the Maldives creates meaningful opportunities for freelancers and entrepreneurs while contributing to the country’s wider economic diversification goals. His remarks reflected the increasing importance of trusted digital financial infrastructure in helping emerging economies compete and grow in a rapidly evolving global marketplace.
The rollout was made possible through the efforts of Techfin Maldives, a subsidiary of Ooredoo Maldives, which received the inward remittance licence in October 2025. Following the completion of testing earlier this year, the service is now being delivered through seamless integration with Ooredoo’s m-Faisaa platform, allowing users to access global payment capabilities through a familiar and convenient local channel. This integration reflects the growing sophistication of the Maldives’ digital services sector and demonstrates how local innovation can be aligned with international financial platforms to produce practical benefits for consumers and businesses alike.
Ooredoo Maldives Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Shadi Qawasmi said the introduction of PayPal strengthens the nation’s digital connectivity and adds fresh momentum to efforts aimed at building a resilient and future-ready digital economy. He noted that as the Maldives continues its journey towards becoming a fully digital nation, the new service offers individuals greater international opportunities and broadens the range of tools available for financial participation. His remarks underscore the role that technology-driven financial services can play in improving access, convenience, and economic inclusion across island communities.
Although Ooredoo Maldives led the operational implementation of the project, the initiative was also one of the government’s key digital priorities. The administration had first disclosed in August 2024 that efforts were underway to secure access to the platform, and the successful launch now reflects a sustained focus on bringing internationally relevant financial technology solutions to the Maldives. The inauguration at Barceló Nasandhura Malé also provided an appropriate setting for an announcement of national importance, with the venue symbolising the Maldives’ continued emergence as a modern, connected destination that combines hospitality, innovation, and economic ambition.
With the launch now complete, the Maldives further strengthens its position as one of the region’s more advanced digital economies. The availability of PayPal is expected to contribute positively to the business environment by supporting online enterprise, encouraging innovation, and making it easier for Maldivians to engage with the global economy from within the country. For international observers, the development highlights the Maldives’ growing confidence in embracing modern financial technologies and its determination to create a digitally empowered future for its people.
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