The President of the Republic of Maldives, His Excellency Dr Mohamed Muizzu, welcomed the Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), His Excellency Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Murshid, during a courtesy visit held at the President’s Office on 14th April 2025. The meeting underscored the enduring and productive relationship between the Maldives and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to enhanced cooperation and the continued implementation of major development projects.
In honour of his exemplary leadership and the Saudi Fund for Development’s ongoing support for the nation’s socio-economic progress, President Dr Muizzu conferred upon Mr. Al-Murshid the Order of the Dignified Rule of Muleege Dynasty (O.D.R.M.D), one of the highest honours accorded by the Maldivian State. The ceremonial conferral took place prior to the meeting, recognising the SFD’s strategic contributions to key infrastructure projects across the country.
President Dr Muizzu extended his heartfelt appreciation for the longstanding support of the SFD, particularly in facilitating the expansion of Velana International Airport, a vital gateway to Maldivian tourism as well as advancements in the national health and housing sectors. He noted that such initiatives play a critical role in elevating the Maldives’ global connectivity, enhancing public service delivery, and creating long-term opportunities for the local population.
During the discussions, both leaders expressed their shared enthusiasm for strengthening bilateral ties and working together on existing and future development initiatives. They emphasised the importance of timely project delivery and reiterated their shared vision for achieving tangible results that benefit the people of the Maldives.
The visit concluded with Mr. Al-Murshid signing the official guest book of the President’s Office, marking a moment of diplomatic goodwill and continued collaboration between the two nations.
This high-level engagement reaffirms the Maldives’ enduring partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through the SFD, an alliance that continues to play a vital role in supporting the Maldives’ aspirations for inclusive growth and sustainable development.