Maldives President lays foundation for largest mosque in Hulhumalé

President Mohamed Muizzu has officially laid the foundation stone for the Sultan Mohamed bin Abdullah Grand Mosque and Islamic Civilization Centre in Hulhumalé Phase 2. The project, which is set to be the largest mosque in the Maldives, is designed to accommodate approximately 10,000 worshippers. The complex will also feature an Islamic library, a cultural centre, and a Quran museum to promote Islamic education and history.

Financing and construction for the mega-project have been awarded to Saudi Arabia’s Al Rajhi Company. The ceremony coincided with the 900th anniversary of the Maldives' conversion to Islam. The Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, stated that the primary mosque structure is targeted for completion within two years.

In a related development to support religious infrastructure, the government has established Maldives Awqaf Investments Limited via presidential decree. This state-owned company is tasked with managing waqf properties, constructing and refurbishing mosques, and undertaking Sharia-compliant commercial activities to provide sustainable funding for religious affairs. The Minister clarified that the company’s goal is to provide financial resources for mosque maintenance rather than seizing control from local councils.