President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has ratified the Urban Development Act, which establishes a legal framework for sustainable urban planning and development in the Maldives. Introduced by Villingili MP Azim Abdul Azeez and passed with 70 votes, the Act includes guidelines for zoning, land use, and project monitoring, while safeguarding protected areas and cultural heritage. Key provisions include the creation of an Urban Development Authority to oversee master plans and the classification of urban areas to ensure systematic growth.