President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has inaugurated a new Bank of Maldives (BML) USD ATM service in Alifu Alifu Thoddoo, fulfilling a promise made to the residents eight months ago.

The inauguration took place during the President’s visit to the island on August 20, where he marked the commencement of the service by making the first withdrawal. The initiative makes Thoddoo the fourth island outside Malé City to host a USD ATM, following Maafushi, Addu City and Kulhudhuffushi City.

The introduction of the service comes as part of Government efforts to strengthen financial accessibility in tourism hubs. Thoddoo, a leading local tourism destination with more than 50 guesthouses, has seen a growing demand for dollar withdrawal facilities due to the increasing number of international visitors.

During the visit, a groundbreaking ceremony was also held for a new BML branch in Thoddoo, inaugurated by Minister of Finance and Planning Moosa Zameer, alongside the BML Chief Executive Officer and the Thoddoo Island Council President.