The Maldives is taking decisive steps toward reducing reliance on foreign healthcare services, with the inauguration of an expanded dialysis centre in Hulhumalé signalling a move towards greater medical self-sufficiency.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Male’ City Group of Hospitals CEO Ibrahim Abdul Razzaq Haleem reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to working under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s vision to ensure healthcare independence. The expanded centre, located at the Orange Hiyaa complex, adds 30 dialysis beds to the existing service capacity.

Dialysis care in Hulhumalé had previously been limited to just 10 beds, resulting in high patient volumes and lengthy waiting times. The new facility will allow for up to 150 patients to be treated daily, with additional provisions for emergency cases and patients requiring isolation. The move is expected to significantly ease the strain on dialysis services in the Greater Malé Region. The expansion project was carried out by local contractors Medtech Maldives and Medicom Pvt Ltd, following a competitive bidding process earlier this year.