President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced an unprecedented expansion of Islamic infrastructure and Quranic development across the Maldives, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s Islamic identity and strengthening religious life in every community.
Addressing the People’s Majlis during the Presidential Address for 2026, the President revealed that 90 major religious projects were undertaken over the past year, including the construction of 74 mosques, 7 Islamic centres, 3 Quran centres, and 6 Waqf building. Among these, the Hafiz Ahmed Islamic Center and projects in ten islands have already been completed and inaugurated, with five additional mosques set to open before the start of the holy month of Ramadan.
Beyond new construction, President Muizzu emphasized the government’s strong focus on preserving existing mosques. A total of MVR 19.4 million was spent last year on mosque renovations nationwide, while MVR 15 million has been allocated in the current budget to ensure continued maintenance and dignity of these sacred spaces.
Looking ahead, the President confirmed that construction of Islamic centres will commence in ten more islands this year, with agreements for three centres signed on January 21. Mosque construction will also begin in 17 additional islands, further expanding access to prayer facilities across the archipelago. In Malé, four major mosques with capacities exceeding 800 worshippers will have their prayer halls and women’s sections air-conditioned before Ramadan, under a nationwide comfort and accessibility initiative.
A major highlight of the address was the announcement that practical work on the Hulhumalé Grand Mosque will begin this year, marking a landmark step in realizing a national vision for a grand religious and cultural centre.
President Muizzu also underscored the central role of the Holy Quran, describing it as the guiding constitution for Muslims. In recognition of Hafizes, the government has doubled the monthly allowance for those who have memorized the Quran, increasing it from MVR 2,000 to MVR 4,000. The President noted that 2023 marked a historic milestone, with 30 individuals graduating as Hafizes, the highest number ever recorded in the Maldives.
To ensure long-term sustainability of Quranic education, the government has committed to establishing branches of the Center for the Holy Quran in every inhabited island by the end of 2028. As part of this effort, work on a dedicated Quran Waqf building in Malé will begin this year to secure permanent funding for Quran-related activities.
Further strengthening national Quranic engagement, the government has assumed full responsibility for organizing the National Quran Recitation Competition, doubled prize allocations, and introduced a Presidential Scholarship for the overall champion. The scholarship will support studies up to PhD level in any chosen field, in any country.
In a move reflecting inclusive governance, President Muizzu announced a new initiative to expand training for Quran teachers specializing in educating children with disabilities, ensuring equal access to beautiful Quranic recitation for all Maldivian children.
The address positions the Muizzu administration as firmly committed to faith-based development, national unity, and the preservation of Islamic values, while pairing spiritual growth with tangible state investment across the Maldives.
