Govt begins assessing impact of Middle East situation on Maldives' economy

Jun 24, 2025, 4:16 AM
Finance Minister Moosa Zameer. -- Photo: President's Office

Finance Minister Moosa Zameer. -- Photo: President's Office

Finance Minister Moosa Zameer has announced that the government is assessing the impact of the situation in the Middle East on the country's economy.

The conflict began on June 13 following Israeli attacks on Iranian military bases. The United States also targeted some locations in Iran.

Iran continued to attack Israel and responded to the US by attacking a military base in Qatar on Monday.

Qatar and the United Arab Emirates temporarily closed their airspace after the attack. Connecting flights from Doha in Qatar, Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the UAE attract a large number of tourists.

However, the airspace was reopened hours later. The UAE is also one of the largest importers of goods to the Maldives.

In a post on X, Zameer said the government was "actively assessing the impact of the situation.

"We are working with relevant institutions to closely monitor market prices, inflationary trends, and trade flow disruptions," he wrote.

Meanwhile, Tourism Minister Thoriq Ibrahim said in a post on X that the government was working with stakeholders to monitor the situation.

"Our thoughts are with those who are impacted and our priority is to safeguard the seamless operation of our tourism sector and ensure the safety and well-being of all travelers," he wrote.

Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen said the government was closely monitoring the potential impact on air travelers from the West to the Maldives.

"Some Middle Eastern carriers at Malé Airport experienced delays, but departures are now resuming," he posted on Monday night.

US President Donald Trump has said he is working to reach a reconciliation between Iran and Israel. Iran has said it will ceasefire when Israel stops attacks, but Israel has not commented.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

Mental health centre opened in Kulhudhuffushi

Kulhudhuffushi City has opened "Manas Hub," a new mental health center launched by the City Council and the Australian High Commissioner. The facility aims to reduce social stigma and provide accessible support, treatment, and early intervention. This milestone marks a major step in strengthening community-based mental health services.

Audit reveals millions in losses over project given to POLCO

An audit revealed millions in losses after the Home Ministry awarded a prison project to POLCO without competitive bidding. POLCO subcontracted the work for a fraction of the price and charged MVR 2.9 million for demolition work that never occurred. The Auditor General has recommended an investigation by the Anti-Corruption Commission.

Yameen urges Eagle Hills to scrap Rasmalé project

Former President Abdulla Yameen has urged Eagle Hills to scrap the Rasmalé project, labeling it an exploitation of a "morally bankrupt" regime. He cited public resentment and controversial lease terms that suggest a permanent loss of land. The project faces heavy criticism for its financial structure and perceived lack of public support.

PG had secured release of suspect detained with film stars

Shahil Mohamed, recently arrested with several film stars for drug offenses, was previously released from pretrial detention in a two-kilogram heroin trafficking case. The Prosecutor General’s Office had requested his release due to his medical condition and length of detention. He has now tested positive for synthetic drugs.

Eagle Hills to develop 5,000 housing units in Urban Isle

UAE’s Eagle Hills will develop 5,000 housing units in Hulhumalé’s "Urban Isle" as a prerequisite for the Rasmalé Waterfront project. The $400–$500 million development features three-bedroom apartments funded by future property sales. This initiative replaces a stalled $8 billion financial center project previously planned for the same site.

Two discharged, two in critical condition after road accident

Two people are in critical condition on ventilators and two others have been discharged following a motorcycle crash in Hulhumalé. The accident occurred when a motorcycle carrying three people fled police by driving against traffic. One victim suffered a brain hemorrhage, and the unlicensed driver reportedly has an extensive criminal record.

Renovation begins at Hulhumale' synthetic track

Renovations have begun on the Hulhumale' synthetic track to upgrade it to international World Athletics standards. The project involves installing a high-quality polyurethane surface to ensure athlete records are officially recognized. Work is expected to be completed by January next year.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox