The Maldives’ largest-ever celebration of innovation and craftsmanship, the Maldives Expo 2025, officially commenced with an awards ceremony graced by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. The event, held at the Social Center, honored outstanding contributors across various sectors, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s creative and entrepreneurial journey.
— The President’s Office (@presidencymv) May 22, 2025
Top Honors for Visionaries
Among the distinguished recipients of the Gold Award—bestowed upon the top five entries—were:
- Lujain Ali Waheed, H. Hulhudhuhfaaru’aage, Malé
- Abudy Maldives
- Maldives Polytechnic
- Mohamed Moosa, Garaadeege, R. Inguraidhoo
- Ali Mahir
These individuals and organizations were recognized for their exceptional creativity and contributions to their respective fields.
Category Leaders Recognized
The exhibition also celebrated first-place winners across various categories:
- Individual Category: Lujain Ali Waheed, H. Hulhudhuhfaaru’aage, Malé
- Island Level Participation: Ga. Villingili Council Office
- City Level Participation: Addu City Council Office
- Business Category: Cidee’s Kitchen Private Limited
- Educational Institutions: Maldives Polytechnic
- Special Needs Category: Fathimath Shafag, Radiumge, Th. Vilufushi
- Associations and Organizations: Women Entrepreneurs Association Maldives
- City/Island Overall: Addu City Hithadhoo
- Government-Owned Companies: State Electric Company Private Limited
A Nationwide Showcase of Talent
The Maldives Expo 2025 attracted 383 participants from across the archipelago, spanning 14 categories and 82 sub-categories. Notably, the handicrafts category saw the highest number of entries, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and artisanal skills prevalent in the Maldives. Islands from Haa Dhaalu Atoll to Laamu Atoll were represented, with Malé and B. Thulusdhoo contributing the most entries. In total, over 3,600 application forms were submitted, underscoring the event’s significance and reach.
Presidential Initiative for Economic Growth
The exhibition, scheduled to run from May 23 to May 31 at Central Park in Hulhumalé, is a flagship initiative launched by President Muizzu on May 19, 2024, following Cabinet approval. Organized jointly by the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade and the Business Centre Corporation (BCC), the event aims to bolster Maldivian productivity and expand business opportunities by fostering a culture of creativity and innovation.
Public Service Media (PSM) has been appointed as the official media partner for the exhibition, tasked with promoting the event and its participants to a broader audience, both domestically and internationally.
As the exhibition opens its doors to the public on Friday night at 8:30 PM, it stands as a testament to the Maldives’ commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and positioning itself as a hub for creative enterprise in the region.
