The Maldives’ unique geography, with 99 per cent of its territory covered by water and its islands scattered across the ocean, has always posed a formidable challenge for transportation. For generations, Maldivians dreamed of a reliable system that could seamlessly connect their islands. That dream is now being realised through the development of the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) high-speed ferry network.

In his Presidential Address 2025, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu emphasised that inter-island transport is not a luxury but a fundamental necessity dictated by the country’s geographical formation. Acting on this vision, the Government has made unprecedented progress in delivering a nationwide ferry network that is both efficient and affordable, reducing dependency on expensive air travel and cutting what were once overnight journeys to just a few hours.

The RTL ferry system is being developed in six zones. To date, Zone One, covering Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu, and Shaviyani Atolls, has been completed, along with Zone Two, covering Noonu, Raa, Baa, and Lhaviyani, Zone Five, covering Gaafu Alifu and Gaafu Dhaalu, and Zone Six, which includes Fuvahmulah and Addu City. Work is already underway on Zone Three, which will connect Kaafu, Alifu Alifu, Alifu Dhaalu, and Vaavu Atolls, while discussions are ongoing with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to conduct a baseline survey for Zone Four, which encompasses Meemu, Faafu, Dhaalu, Thaa, and Laamu.

The Administration has also ensured steady expansion of the network in recent years. In 2024, Noonu Atoll was added to RTL operations, and in 2025, additional routes were introduced to both Raa and Baa Atolls. With the launch of services in Baa Atoll, the RTL network now provides coverage to 11 atolls nationwide. This expansion has been further supported by international partnerships, with the government of India providing a grant of MVR 100 million to help develop ferries for the service.

Beyond expanding routes, the Government has taken steps to strengthen decentralisation by beginning the handover of ferry terminals to local councils, ensuring that communities play a greater role in managing and maintaining these vital assets.

Furthermore, the Administration has announced plans to provide free RTL ferry travel for patients travelling for the treatment of major and chronic illnesses. This initiative ensures that Maldivians can access essential healthcare with greater ease and dignity, no matter where they live.

By investing in the RTL network, the Government is transforming long-standing transportation challenges into opportunities for greater unity, accessibility, and development across the nation. What was once a distant dream for Maldivians is now becoming an enduring reality.