Uhdhoo has been designated as a picnic island for the residents of Dhaalu Atoll, as announced by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu during his visit to Meedhoo as part of his ongoing tour of the atoll.

Previously leased for commercial use, Uhdhoo was returned to the Government following the expiry of its agreement. The island has now been placed under the Ministry of Cities, Local Government, and Public Works, which will oversee its management and facilitate public access. The Ministry is expected to announce further details on travel arrangements and related services in the coming days.

During his visit, President Dr Muizzu addressed key concerns raised by Meedhoo residents, assuring them that housing issues would be addressed under his Administration. He also reiterated that the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) ferry system would be operational by the end of 2025, improving connectivity within the atoll. Additionally, he highlighted plans to improve waste management services on the island through the Waste Management Corporation Limited (WAMCO).

As part of the development efforts, key agreements were signed during the visit. An agreement to establish a new waste management centre in Meedhoo was formalised between Tourism and Environment Minister Thoriq Ibrahim and WAMCO Managing Director Mujuthaba Jaleel. Additionally, a contract for the second phase of the Meedhoo harbour development project was signed by Minister of Construction, Housing, and Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib and Maldives Transport and Contracting Company Limited (MTCC)’s Managing Director, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Retd.) Ahmed Saudee.

President Dr Muizzu assured that these projects would be completed within the stipulated timeframe, with further commitments made to enhance sports facilities on the island. He also pledged to address space shortages in local schools, stating that expansions would be undertaken within 2025 and 2026 to accommodate growing student numbers.

The President reaffirmed his Administration’s commitment to fulfilling election pledges, stating that significant progress would be made within the next two years, reinforcing optimism among the people of Dhaalu Meedhoo.