President Awards Order of Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin to Hussain Afeef

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has conferred the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin (N.H.H.V.) upon Hussain Afeef, a recipient of the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Muleege. The honor was presented to him during the official ceremony held this morning to mark Independence Day.

Hussain Afeef is one of the pioneering founders who introduced tourism to the Maldives. He stands as one of the primary architects behind the inception of the country's tourism industry. The most significant testament to his enduring commitment to national service is his lifelong dedication to the sustainable development of Maldivian tourism. In the early days of establishing the industry, Afeef personally undertook various roles within the resort sector—from working in resort kitchens and guiding tour groups to serving in senior management. His hands-on involvement across all levels of operations underscores his unwavering commitment to establishing and maintaining high standards within the Maldivian hospitality industry.

In a landmark development for the Maldivian tourism industry, Hussain Afeef introduced a revolutionary and visionary change with the opening of the world's first fully solar-powered resort at Gasfinolhu, North Malé Atoll, in late 2014. This pioneering move toward eco-friendly energy marked a significant shift in the sector's evolution. Beyond this innovation, Afeef is widely recognized for his extensive efforts in promoting Maldivian tourism across Europe and various international markets. As a founding member of the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), he has held several key leadership positions within the organization, including Vice Chairman and Chairman. Currently serving as the Chairman of MATI, Afeef continues to play a pivotal role in the ongoing development of the industry.

Beyond tourism, Hussain Afeef’s contributions as an entrepreneur across various sectors—including hospitality, aviation, banking, and healthcare—deserve special recognition. His significant role in the development of Addu International Airport is particularly noteworthy. Furthermore, the establishment and commencement of services at Tree Top Hospital, with Mr. Afeef’s involvement, marked a revolutionary shift in the Maldivian healthcare sector. The opening of this 210-bed tertiary hospital provided citizens with access to high-quality medical services previously unavailable in the country. Tree Top Hospital also holds the distinction of introducing the first fertility clinic in the Maldives.

Under the Ali Fulhu Thuttu Foundation (AFTF), named in honor of his beloved father, Hussain Afeef has planned and executed numerous Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives and community development projects. To date, a significant number of students who received their education through the foundation's support are actively serving in various sectors across the Maldives. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that under Afeef’s leadership, water and sewerage systems have been established in several inhabited islands. Additionally, his involvement in the founding of the Commercial Bank of Maldives has paved the way for the financial growth of Maldivian businesses. Afeef also serves as the Chairman of the Board of the Commercial Bank of Maldives.

Throughout his extensive career in the tourism industry, Afif has received numerous prestigious awards both locally and internationally. He was first honored with the National Award of Recognition for his contributions to tourism in 1989, followed by the National Award of Honor in the same field in 2004. On September 16, 2010, the government conferred upon Hussain Afif the title of "Dignitary of Long Service to the State." Furthermore, on July 26, 2013, he was bestowed with the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzudheen (Nishaan Muleege Sharafuge Izzath).