Scholars’ Association warns of foreign residency risks in Ras Male' project, urges concerns be raised with Muizzu
14 އޮކްޓޯބަރު 2026 | ބުދަ 07:54The Scholars' Association has shared concerns with the Minister of Islamic Affairs regarding the Ras Male' real estate project, warning of potential threats to the Maldives' Islamic identity, sovereignty, and economic stability. The association requested the Minister to convey these grievances to the President, specifically highlighting fears that the project could pave the way for foreign nationals to obtain residency within the country.
A file photo from a previous meeting held between the Scholars’ Association and Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed. | Ilmuveringe gulhun
The Scholars' Association has met with the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, to express significant concerns regarding the government's proposed real estate development zone project in Ras Male', requesting that these matters be brought to the President's attention.
During the meeting, the Minister was briefed in detail regarding the potential risks the Ras Male' project could pose to the Maldives. The scholars shared their concerns that the project might grant residency to foreign nationals, which they believe could threaten the nation's Islamic unity, sovereignty, and independence. Furthermore, the Scholars' Union stated that they highlighted concerns regarding the detrimental impact the project could have on the country's economic autonomy and Maldivian culture.
The Association of Scholars stated that these concerns were presented to the Minister based on extensive information gathered by the organization from various relevant government authorities.
Consequently, the Scholars' Association has requested the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, to relay all identified risks and concerns regarding this project to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
The Scholars' Union has met with key government officials to share concerns raised by scholars regarding the Ras Male' project. The delegation held discussions with the Minister of Construction and Infrastructure, Dr. Abdulla Muththalib; the Attorney General, Ahmed Usham; the Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed; and the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed.
Religious scholars are expressing growing concern over the decision to lease a significant portion of Ras Male' to Eagle Hills for a period of 99 years.
