The Bank of Maldives (BML) has opened its 40th branch in Raa Dhuvaafaru, officially establishing its branches to every atoll of the Maldives.

The new branch, launched under the bank’s ‘Islamic Financing First’ policy, will operate in full accordance with Islamic Shariah principles. It was inaugurated by the Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure, Dr Abdulla Muthathalib, at a ceremony attended by BML Chairperson Ahmed Ali Habeeb, Deputy CEO and COO Sahar Waheed, and local council and parliamentary representatives.

Minister Dr Muthathalib welcomed the move, noting that delivering essential services to inhabited islands is a key Government priority. He said the Dhuvaafaru branch responds to longstanding public demand and will significantly enhance convenience for residents.

BML stated that the Dhuvaafaru branch will offer full banking services, including account opening, loan disbursement, and card services during official hours, along with 24/7 access to deposit and withdrawal services, bill payments, and fund transfers.

The opening of the Dhuvaafaru branch is a major milestone in BML’s efforts to increase access to banking services in island communities. With this expansion, the bank now operates 40 branches, 133 self-service centres, 188 ATMs, and over 200 cash agents across 20 atolls. BML, which opened its first branch in Malé in 1982, has grown into a national bank committed to financial inclusion and the expansion of modern banking services across the country.