Ooredoo Maldives has achieved a historic breakthrough in the nation’s digital infrastructure with the successful landing of a submarine cable at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi—marking the first-ever such installation at a Maldivian resort. The strategic initiative is expected to significantly enhance the Maldives’ connectivity landscape by delivering high-speed, resilient, and future-proof digital infrastructure.
The new submarine cable route extends from Ithaafushi to Maafushi and connects directly to Ooredoo’s state-of-the-art Data Center in Hulhumalé, ensuring robust capacity and dual redundancy. The development is poised to transform internet speed, quality, and reliability across the region, especially within the premium hospitality segment.
A special landing ceremony was held on 2 August 2025 at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi. The event was attended by key government and industry figures, including Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim, Ooredoo Maldives CEO and Managing Director Khalid Al-Hamadi, Communication Authority of Maldives CEO Ilyas Ibrahim, Maafushi Council President Hassan Solah, and General Manager of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, TJ Joulak.
Ooredoo Maldives CEO Khalid Al-Hamadi described the project as a pivotal step in realising the company’s vision of a “Digital Maldives.”
“This landing at the nation’s first private 5G-enabled island resort sets a new standard—not only for connectivity but for hospitality innovation. With dedicated submarine infrastructure, dual redundancy, and AI-driven private 5G, we’re redefining digital luxury for global travelers while empowering Maldivian communities” he said.
Tourism Minister Thoriq Ibrahim praised Ooredoo’s commitment to digital inclusivity, stating that the initiative reflects two decades of progress since the company’s entry into the market in 2005.
“This is more than a technological achievement; it’s a symbol of how far we’ve come. Ooredoo has played a critical role in ensuring digital access reaches every corner of our island nation” he noted.
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi’s General Manager, TJ Joulak, emphasized the role of connectivity in elevating guest experiences.
“As a luxury destination focused on personalization and excellence, this enhanced connectivity allows us to meet the evolving demands of global travelers with seamless, next-generation digital services” Joulak said.
The resort, now equipped with private 5G, AI-enabled infrastructure, and a next-gen ‘tree tower’, becomes the Maldives’ most technologically advanced hospitality destination.
As Ooredoo Maldives celebrates its 20th anniversary, this landmark submarine cable project reaffirms its dedication to fostering digital transformation and bridging the connectivity divide across the country—paving the way for a smarter, more inclusive Maldives.
