A four-screen cinema complex is set to be developed in Hulhumalé, according to the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts, Ibrahim Waheed.

Responding to questions about the lack of modern cinema infrastructure in the Maldives during Monday’s Ahaa forum, Minister Waheed noted that the country currently lacks a modern, purpose-built cinema.

To address this, the Ministry has initiated discussions with foreign investors interested in developing a comprehensive entertainment facility. The proposed complex is expected to include not only multiple cinema screens but also gaming zones and a shopping centre.

Highlighting current limitations, the Minister pointed to Olympus Cinema, the country’s oldest cinema. Despite undergoing renovations, most recently in 2023, the venue still faces technical and structural challenges that make it unsuitable for a modern cinematic experience.

Rather than repurposing Olympus further, the Minister said the Government believes the best approach is to build a new, high-quality cinema equipped with modern facilities. He stressed the importance of having a multi-functional entertainment venue that goes beyond film screenings and includes additional attractions such as games and retail outlets.

The new Hulhumalé cinema, he said, is expected to feature at least four screens, allowing multiple films to be shown simultaneously. This would address a recurring challenge faced by Maldivian filmmakers: the shortage of available screens for new releases.

The Ministry has initiated talks with foreign investors and is working closely with the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) to identify and prepare a suitable location in Hulhumalé for the project.

Currently, the Maldives has limited cinema infrastructure. Olympus Cinema in Malé, with a seating capacity of around 438, has been operational since 1957 and primarily screens local content. Schwack Cinema, the only other operating cinema brand, has outlets in both Malé and Hulhumalé but mainly offers international titles.