Maldives Cabinet Approves Foreign Land Ownership, Plans PR Strategy to Curb Public Concerns

The Maldives Cabinet has approved a landmark decision to allow foreign ownership of land, a move that includes constitutional amendments and the introduction of a new real estate law. The decision, based on a paper presented by Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Dr. Abdullah Muththalib, also entails the establishment of a Property Regulatory Authority of the Maldives and a special residential visa for investors. Notably, the cabinet paper includes plans for a comprehensive public relations (PR) strategy to mitigate public concerns over the policy. The decision has sparked widespread criticism. Religious scholar Sheikh Zamzam Fareeshi accused the government of planning to use propaganda to 'pacify' citizens, arguing that the need for such a strategy indicates an agenda that is not in the national interest. He specifically questioned the Rasmalé project, claiming it is not being conducted for the benefit of Maldivians. Social media has seen an outpouring of concern from citizens who fear the move could compromise national security and land sovereignty. The cabinet had initially approved the proposals in September 2025, with the details emerging now.