Hirimaradhoo Residents Given 30 Days to Express Interest in Moving to Hoarafushi

Hanimaadhoo Council has opened registration for residents of Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Hirimaradhoo, who wish to relocate to Haa Alifu Atoll, Hoarafushi, following an invitation extended by the Hoarafushi Council. Residents have been given 30 days to register their interest.

According to an announcement issued by the Hanimaadhoo Council, the invitation was formally made through a letter from the Hoarafushi Council dated 28 March 2026 and a decision adopted at the council’s general meeting on 27 March.

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The announcement requests Hirimaradhoo residents interested in relocating to Hoarafushi to register their names through the Hanimaadhoo Ward Office, formerly the Hirimaradhoo Council Office, at the Hanimaadhoo Council Office. Registrations may also be submitted via email or by phone.

The Hoarafushi Council stated that a previous council had decided to allocate land plots to Hirimaradhoo residents who relocate to the island. However, it noted that the current council has not yet discussed the matter. The council added that it would provide cooperation based on the number of residents who express interest in relocating.

The government decided in February last year to relocate the population of Hirimaradhoo to Hanimaadhoo, citing the island’s small population. On 17 May this year, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu designated Hirimaradhoo as an uninhabited island and transferred its administration to the Hanimaadhoo Council.

Hirimaradhoo has the smallest population among the 13 inhabited islands of Haa Dhaalu Atoll. According to the most recent census, the island has a resident population of 293 people, comprising 157 males and 136 females.

The government has previously stated that despite plans to relocate residents, basic services will continue to be provided on Hirimaradhoo for as long as people remain living on the island.