President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed that the establishment of development zones and urban centres nationwide has been a priority of his Administration since its commencement.
In a post on his official X account, the President shared key details regarding sustainable development, as outlined in Sections 4.12, 4.13, and 4.14 of Chapter 4 of the Dhiveheenge Raajje Manifesto. As part of the Maldives’ Sustainable Regional Development Policy, the manifesto outlines plans to establish Southern and Northern Integrated Development Zones. This includes the MalĂ© Urban Region, the three northernmost atolls, and the four southernmost atolls. Additionally, President Dr Muizzu highlighted that the manifesto clearly states the government’s commitment to developing a total of seven urban centres—three to the north of MalĂ© City and four in the south. The President’s post also noted that he has reiterated this in several meetings since the launch of the manifesto.
The President stated that these initiatives are planned to be incorporated into the 20-year National Development Plan and will be implemented with the involvement of all stakeholders, including the input of technical experts, councils, and the people of all the islands across the country.
Chapter 4 (Housing and Urbanisation) of the Dhiveheenge Raajje Manifesto, Section 4.12, discusses the MalĂ© Urban Region, identifying it as a high-end service area. The northern development zone encompasses Haa Alifu Atoll, Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Shaviyani Atoll, and other nearby atolls. Haa Dhaalu Atoll has been designated as the main administrative hub, while Kulhudhuffushi City is recognised as an international gateway. Additionally, Hdh. Hanimadhoo is included as part of the region’s development plan. There is also a vision for an international transhipment port at HA. Ihavandhipolhu.
Section 4.13 emphasises the Male’ Urban Region and other high-end service areas, with Addu City designated as the administrative hub and an international gateway in the southern development zone. This zone comprises Gaafu Dhaalu, Gaafu Alif, Fuvahmulah City, and Addu City is identified as the site for an international transhipment port, with plans for the expansion and development of industrial activities, fisheries, agriculture, mariculture, and tourism.
Section 4.13 mentions the Male’ Urban Region and the high-end service area. It outlines the southern development zone, which includes Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Gaafu Alif Atoll, Fuvahmulah City, and Addu City. Addu City is designated as both an administrative hub and an international gateway. The section also highlights the vision for expanding and developing international transhipment ports, industrial activities, fisheries, agriculture, mariculture, and tourism resources in the region.
Section 4.14 outlines the development of seven additional moderate urban centres, including three in the north and four in the south.
