Sheikh Imthithaau Abbas has been appointed as the new Director General of the Maldives Zakat House, under the authority granted to the Zakat Council by the newly enacted Zakat Act.

The selection followed a public vacancy announcement and an interview process involving multiple applicants. Sheikh Imthithaau was selected after the Council assessed candidates based on qualifications, experience and suitability for the role.

Prior to his appointment, Sheikh Imthithaau served as Deputy Minister of Islamic Affairs until 14 January 2026. During his time at the Ministry, he held several senior positions, including Senior Political Director and Head of International Relations. He also previously served as Vice Chair of the Zakat House Shari’ah Advisory Committee before the enforcement of the new Zakat Act.

Sheikh Imthithaau holds a Bachelor’s degree in Hadeethic Sciences and Islamic Studies from the Islamic University of Madinah and a Master’s degree in Judicial Sciences and Shari’ah Policy from the Islamic University of Maldives. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Islamic Judicial Sciences and Shari’ah Policy.

The Zakat Act came into force on 1 January 2026 and provides for the establishment of a Zakat Council to offer advisory support to the Minister of Finance and Planning and the Maldives Zakat House on matters related to the administration and management of the national Zakat system.