Foundation Laid for Dhaarul Arqam Waqf Building in Malé

The foundation was laid on Thursday for the Dhaarul Arqam Waqf building, which is scheduled for construction in Malé. 

The foundation stone was placed by the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, during a ceremony attended by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. Several state ministers and senior officials from the Ministry of Islamic Affairs also attended the event

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According to the ministry, the 12-storey building will feature modern facilities. The basement and ground floor are designated for parking, with the first floor set aside for the reception area. A conference hall will occupy the second floor, while the remaining floors will include office spaces, meeting rooms, and prayer rooms. The rooftop will serve as an open terrace. The building will include lifts, and accessibility features will be incorporated for persons with special needs.

The building is to be developed on Buruzu Magu, in the currently empty lot next to the National Center for Information Technology (NCIT) building.

Rasheed Carpentry and Construction Private Limited (RCC) has been contracted to complete the project within 540 days at a cost of MVR 39,462,545.08, the ministry said.. The development is being financed through the Bank of Maldives Islamic Finance scheme.

The initiative forms part of President Muizzu’s pledge to expand the Waqf fund and strengthen financial resources that support the Islamic sector, the ministry noted. Alongside Dhaarul Arqam, a Waqf building is planned for Hulhumalé, and a dedicated Waqf building for the Holy Quran is scheduled for Malé.

Speaking at the event, Minister Shaheem said the President remains committed to advancing the nation’s future and enhancing Islamic services. He noted that preparations are underway to lay the foundation for the country’s largest Waqf building in Hulhumalé later this month.

“The profit generated from this building will be spent on Islamic services, spreading the knowledge of the Holy Quran, mosques, and all religious matters,” he said.

In addition to Darul Iman and Darul Arqam, the government plans to establish Waqf buildings in Addu City, Fuvahmulah City, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, and Thiladhunmathi, which is made up of Haa Alifu and Haa Dhaalu Atolls. Revenue generated from these buildings will support initiatives promoting and preserving Islamic unity nationwide.