Construction of Maldives’ Grand Mosque to Begin in September, Says Islamic Minister

Islamic Minister Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has announced that construction of the largest mosque in the Maldives, described as a “Grand Mosque”, is scheduled to begin in September this year.

In a message sent to the media, Minister Shaheem said the project is of particular national importance as it is linked to the 900th anniversary of the Maldives’ conversion to Islam.

According to the minister, the mosque will be built between Phase Two and Phase Three of Hulhumalé and will have the capacity to accommodate around 10,000 worshippers at a time. He said the concept design for the mosque has already been completed, while detailed design work is currently under preparation.

Minister Shaheem added that the design and construction are being carried out by foreign experts, and that the entire project, including both design and implementation, is being financed by a foreign donor. The identity of the founder has not been disclosed.

The mosque complex will include several additional facilities, such as waqf and commercial buildings, a parking area and a Qur’an museum. The minister said profits generated from the endowment buildings will be used to support and promote Islamic affairs in the country.

He also noted that representatives of the project’s funders are expected to attend the foundation stone laying ceremony.

At present, the Islamic Centre in Malé, built during the administration of former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom and officially opened on 11 November 1982, is regarded as the largest mosque in the country. However, the largest modern mosque was constructed during the administration of former President Abdullah Yameen, with special assistance from Saudi Arabia under King Salman bin Abdulaziz.