Sea ambulance services have commenced in Noonu Velidhoo as part of the Government’s efforts to expand emergency sea transport services nationwide.

During a meeting with residents of Noonu Velidhoo in July 2025, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu had stated that sea ambulance services would be launched on the island from January 2026.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Velidhoo, Deputy Minister of Defence Fathmath Mizna Ali said the President had provided the necessary support to enable the Ministry to begin work immediately to establish the service in line with the commitment made to residents. She said the introduction of the sea ambulance service would significantly strengthen both healthcare delivery and economic activity in the region.

Mizna noted that the availability of reliable healthcare and emergency response systems increases confidence among business owners and investors, while also providing reassurance and relief to residents.

The Ministry of Defence said nine new sea ambulance services will be established in nine islands across the atolls this year. In addition, services will be resumed in three islands where operations had previously been suspended, while work is also underway to upgrade the existing sea ambulance fleet.

Previously, sea ambulance services in Noonu Atoll were limited to Noonu Manadhoo, often requiring patients to be transported to Malé in emergency cases, resulting in logistical challenges. With the commencement of services in Velidhoo, the Ministry said many of the difficulties faced in patient transportation within the atoll are expected to be resolved.

With the launch of sea ambulance services and the commencement of seaplane operations last Friday, Noonu Velidhoo has entered a new era of interconnected transport.