President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has assured that the major Eagle Hills development planned for Ras Malé will not reduce or disrupt land plots and social housing promised to Maldivians, as the government moves ahead with plans to transform the reclaimed lagoon into a new economic and residential hub.
Speaking on Public Service Media’s Nation Chat programme, Muizzu said the government’s original housing commitments for Ras Malé remain unchanged despite plans to introduce major foreign investment projects in the new city.
“No plot will be cancelled,” the President said, adding that sufficient land would remain available for both plots and apartment developments.
Muizzu said approximately 70 percent of the reclamation has now been completed, with the remaining work expected to be finished within two to three months.
The wider Ras Malé development is planned across more than 1,100 hectares and envisages approximately 65,000 housing units.
Muizzu described the creation of the new land as a major national asset that would provide housing and economic opportunities for future generations.
“There is sufficient land to accommodate plots for everyone,” he said. “There is also ample space for the construction of flats.”
The President said applications are currently being reviewed and that the available land would allow the government to provide plots to a significant number of applicants, including fully accommodating certain categories.
Eagle Hills development to bring investment and jobs
The assurances follow the government’s agreement with Abu Dhabi-based Eagle Hills for the Maldives Waterfront and Marina development in Ras Malé.
The commercial terms agreement envisages a major integrated development featuring international hotels and resorts, branded residences, a marina, waterfront promenades, restaurants, retail outlets, entertainment and wellness facilities.
Muizzu said bringing foreign investment into Ras Malé is intended to accelerate the comprehensive development of the city while generating employment, new businesses and economic opportunities for Maldivians.
The Eagle Hills development is projected to create more than 54,000 direct and indirect jobs, while preliminary estimates indicate it could attract more than USD 30 billion in gross foreign investment over its lifetime. These figures remain projections tied to the project’s future development.
The government has separately said the Eagle Hills project will not alter previously announced social housing allocations.
Ras Malé envisioned as modern smart city
Muizzu said the overall development of Ras Malé would follow a 10-year master plan.
The government is working to have utility infrastructure contracts in place by the completion of reclamation, with physical work expected to begin early next year, according to the President.
Ras Malé is envisioned as an environmentally sustainable, digitally connected city with modern public services and infrastructure accessible to persons with disabilities.
The government’s plans have previously described Ras Malé as a net-zero carbon eco-city designed around internationally recognised safe-island standards.
Muizzu said the combination of housing, infrastructure and large-scale economic development would turn the reclaimed land into a new centre of opportunity while maintaining the government’s commitment to housing security for Maldivian families.
