Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage Heena Waleed has announced that the National Museum of Maldives will be open to the public on Saturdays, with further plans underway to extend operating hours on other days.

Speaking at a press conference at the President’s Office, the minister said the decision was made in response to public requests to increase access to the museum and encourage more visitors. She stated that the museum will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. every Saturday, with the changes set to take effect from May 18.

Minister Heena noted that the move is intended to provide greater opportunities for students and the general public to explore the museum’s collections, including historical artefacts. She added that efforts are also ongoing to introduce extended hours on weekdays.

According to the minister, the Government is considering keeping the museum open until around 9:00 p.m. or 10:00 p.m. on public days, with necessary administrative arrangements currently being finalised.

The introduction of Saturday openings and potential extended hours forms part of efforts to improve accessibility to cultural institutions and promote public engagement with national heritage.