Thinadhoo Council Bans Recreational Activities During Ramadan

The Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll Thinadhoo City Council has announced a ban on all recreational and entertainment activities during the holy month of Ramadan, urging residents to focus on religious observance and the strengthening of Islamic values.

In an announcement issued yesterday, the council said the measures aim to ensure an environment conducive to worship across the city. The ban applies to all sports, games and entertainment activities, both during the day and at night, and covers all public and private spaces, including land and buildings leased for social or residential purposes.

The council said no individual or group will be permitted to organise or conduct recreational events during Ramadan. It added that official activities unrelated to sports or entertainment should also be avoided unless they are essential or directly linked to religious purposes.

The council called on educational institutions, government offices, private businesses, clubs and associations to organise their schedules in a way that facilitates religious practices. It also encouraged employers to adjust duties and shifts during fasting hours to allow staff to attend congregational prayers, and observe iftar without difficulty, while ensuring public services continue with minimal disruption.

While recreational activities are suspended, the council said public sports fields, pitches and running tracks will remain open at designated times for those exercising for health reasons. It said details of opening hours for facilities under council management will be announced separately.

The council stressed that it remains the primary authority responsible to the public and the state, and said offices planning Ramadan-related activities must share details with the council in advance.

Warning of enforcement, the council said it will not provide support or assistance to any party found deliberately violating the guidelines and will take necessary administrative action against those who fail to comply. 

Ramadan this year coincides with ongoing campaign activities for the 2026 Local Council and Women’s Development Committee (WDC) elections, which are scheduled to take place on 4 April, shortly after the end of the holy month.