The Ras Malé land reclamation project is expected to be completed by April next year, according to the Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure, Dr Abdulla Muththalib.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the President’s Office, the Minister stated that three dredgers operated by three separate companies are currently working across 12 zones, with the Government targeting full completion within the announced timeframe.

A total of 1,100 hectares will be reclaimed under the project, which the Government describes as a key initiative to resolve long-standing housing shortages in the Greater Malé Region. Current progress stands at more than 215 hectares reclaimed, with operations continuing at an accelerated pace.

Once the reclamation stage concludes, the Government will begin the registration process for citizens eligible to receive land plots under the new allocation scheme. Approximately 15,000 plots are expected to be made available within the first five months following project completion.

Minister Dr Muththalib stated that the next phase will focus on municipal infrastructure development, including road construction and the establishment of core public services. He confirmed that the Ministry of Finance and Planning has already commenced the tender process for the development of the Ras Malé Master Plan, which will guide housing construction and long-term economic activity in the reclaimed area.

The Minister added that Memoranda of Understanding have been signed to establish water and sewerage systems in Ras Malé, with detailed design work scheduled to begin following finalisation of the master plan. Once completed, the area will transition into the infrastructure development stage, enabling housing projects, commercial facilities and supporting services to begin under the planned eco-city model.