The Ministry of Economic Development has revealed that they will be able to allow shops and businesses to operate round-the-clock in Hulhumalé once the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) allocates areas.

Speaking to RaajjeMV, Registrar of Companies at the ministry, Mariyam Visam stated that they will begin work to allow 24-hour shops in the capital city’s suburban extension once HDC allocates regions that may have 24-hour shops.

While this has been announced, a total of 14 places in capital city Malé are allowed to operate round-the-clock and the ministry also allocated regions in southernmost Addu City in which shops and businesses may operate 24/7.

Shops will only be permitted to sell essentials and the ministry also revealed that the shops must service their customers in all other times except for closing times for prayer.

Shops and businesses will only be allowed to operate round the clock if they are well-lit and have surveillance cameras in their establishment. The establishment is also required to place a 24/7 board in an easily visible spot.

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih decided to allow local stores and cafés to be kept open 24 hours in November 2018. This was included in his first-100-day pledges.

Round the clock shops and cafes were allowed during former President and current Parliament Speaker Mohamed Nasheed’s administration as well. As such, in December 2010, Nasheed had granted approval for wholesalers and retailers as well as local cafés and restaurants to be kept open 24 hours. However, Dr. Mohamed Waheed had renounced this decision after the downfall of Nasheed’s government in 2012.