Minister of Finance and Planning Moosa Zameer has said that 2026 will see a significant expansion of services offered by the Bank of Maldives (BML), with the opening of new branches and ATMs across the country.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the new BML branch in Dhaalu Kudahuvadhoo, the Minister highlighted that the bank plans to open 12 new branches and install 70 US dollar ATMs this year.

He said the expansion of dollar ATMs would support key sectors such as guesthouse tourism in various parts of the country, while also making banking services more accessible for the public and businesses.

“The introduction of more dollar ATMs will strengthen industries such as guesthouses across the country and make transactions easier for individuals and businesses,” he said.

Minister Zameer noted that BML is making strong financial progress and said the bank’s performance has positive implications for the entire country.

“We are seeing the Maldivian national bank returning to its true position. I believe this progress will continue in the future, benefiting the entire Maldives,” he said.

He also highlighted the role played by BML in the expansion of the national economy and called on all stakeholders to work together to further strengthen the bank.

The Minister said continued efforts are needed to create avenues for BML’s further development and stressed the importance of planning systems that enable the bank to participate more directly in business activities.