Saudi Arabia’s Al Imam Mohammed Ibn Saud Islamic University has donated 64,000 books to Islamic libraries across the Maldives, strengthening educational and religious resources in the country.

The books were formally handed over at a ceremony held on 8 September at the Islamic Centre in Malé. The event was attended by Saudi Ambassador to the Maldives Yahya Hassan Al-Qahtani and the University’s Director. Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed received the donation on behalf of the Maldivian Government.

In his remarks, Minister Dr Shaheem said the gift reflected the cordial relationship between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia and stood as a testament to Riyadh’s commitment to supporting students and researchers. He extended thanks to Imam Mohammed Ibn Saud Islamic University, the Institute of Islamic and Arabic Sciences in the Maldives, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Saudi Government, and the Saudi Embassy for their continued assistance.

To acknowledge the contribution, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs presented a special memento to the University. Officials stated that the donation will significantly support the establishment and expansion of Islamic libraries across the country, advancing President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s pledge to broaden access to religious knowledge and educational resources.