Gov’t Sets Deadline for Hulhumale’ Phase 3 and Rasmale’ Dredging Projects

The Maldives government has announced that the large-scale land reclamation project for Hulhumale’ Phase 3 is progressing rapidly and is on track to be completed by 20 January 2026. Minister of Construction, Housing, and Infrastructure, Dr Abdulla Muththalib, revealed that 47 hectares out of the planned 63 hectares have already been dredged. Two large dredgers, including Boskalis’ train suction hopper dredger, have been deployed to expedite the final phase of work. Land registry handovers are expected to begin in January 2026. Additionally, Minister Muththalib outlined the government’s housing philosophy, emphasizing the construction of three-room units to provide families with comfortable living spaces. The larger Rasmale’ reclamation project is also on schedule, with over 215 hectares of the planned 1,100 hectares dredged so far, and completion expected by April 2026. Development will follow the Rasmale’ Master Plan, which envisions an eco-city with full municipal infrastructure. The Minister also provided updates on the ‘Gedhoruveriyaa’ social housing scheme, confirming that 399 recipients have already received keys to their apartments, with all remaining keys to be handed over by January 2026. Revised payment terms for the flats were also announced, making them more affordable for recipients.