President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed arrived in Utheemu, Haa Alif Atoll, on Sunday to lead this year’s official National Day celebrations, fulfilling the President’s pledge to honor the occasion in the historic birthplace of national hero Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu.
President Dr @MMuizzu and First Lady @sajidhaamohamed arrive in HA. Utheemu to officiate the National Day 1447 celebrations. Their visit encompasses a series of engagements, including the inauguration of the Boduthakurufaanu Monumental Gate and the official National Day… pic.twitter.com/nj7Mn5pgYP
— The President’s Office (@presidencymv) August 24, 2025
The First Couple received a warm and emotional welcome from the people of Utheemu, who turned out in large numbers to greet them. This year and next, National Day events will be held at the national level in Utheemu, reaffirming the island’s central place in the Maldives’ fight for independence.
The visit began with a landmark ceremony as President Muizzu laid the foundation stone for the Boduthakurufaanu Gateway—a project designed to revive and preserve the legacy of Ghazi Bandarain. Later this morning, the President will preside over the official National Day ceremony, a highlight of which will be honoring the people of Utheemu for their unwavering service to Maldivian nationalism.
The ceremony will also feature the prestigious presentation of the State Honor, National Award of Honor, and National Award of Recognition, celebrating citizens whose contributions strengthen the nation.
Following the conclusion of events in Utheemu, President Muizzu is scheduled to continue his atoll tour with an official visit to the islands of Haa Dhaalu Atoll.