Male’ City Council Questions Process Behind Hulhumalé Ruhgandu 2 Development

The Male’ City Council has raised serious questions over the transparency and legality of the Housing Development Corporation’s (HDC) plan to transform Hulhumalé’s Ruhgandu 2 area into a commercial entertainment hub, following public backlash over the loss of green space and allegations of an unannounced tender.

The site, measuring approximately 10,000 square feet and widely used by residents for events and relaxation, has already been fenced off. According to HDC, the development will feature a 10-lane bowling alley, gaming arcade, multipurpose hall, and outdoor amenities designed to preserve existing greenery and beach access.

However, during a council meeting, Maafannu North Councillor Hussain Furushan submitted an emergency motion, stating that councillors only learned of the project through social media. Opposition figures and local residents have also expressed strong concern, alleging that the high-value project was awarded to a private company without a public bidding process.

“Hulhumalé has very few open spaces left with that many palm trees and greenery,” Furushan said. “Even the Land Act contains specific procedures that must be fulfilled. There was no public consultation. There was no consultation with the council. It is completely unclear who this land has been awarded to.”

Male’ City Mayor Adam Azim backed the motion, emphasising that under land legislation, such projects require prior public notice and a 14-day consultation period for input from the public and local authorities.

“Under the law, Hulhumalé falls under the authority of the Male’ City Council; HDC does not have discretionary authority over it,” Azim said, adding that the council unanimously agreed to send an official letter to HDC demanding compliance with legal procedures.

MV+  contacted HDC seeking clarification on whether the project was put out to tender, including the date any tender was gazetted, the number of proposals received and the criteria used to evaluate the bids.

Questions were also sent regarding the agreed monthly lease rate per square foot for the site and whether any rent concessions or grace periods were provided during construction.

HDC had not responded to the questions at the time of publication.