Maldives Unveils $8.8 Billion Vision for International Financial center

In a transformative move aimed at redefining the nation's economic trajectory, the Government of the Maldives and MBS Global Investments have announced a monumental partnership to establish the Maldives International Financial Centre (MIFC)—a $8.8 billion, fully sustainable financial zone in the heart of Malé.

The ambitious project marks the single largest investment initiative in the country's history, strategically designed to diversify the Maldivian economy beyond its traditional reliance on tourism. Positioned as a global financial hub in the Indian Ocean, MIFC aims to attract a new wave of digital nomads, fintech pioneers, and global financial institutions.

Set for completion by 2030, the MIFC promises to be a zero-corporate-tax jurisdiction with no inheritance tax, full ownership rights aligned with the Maldivian constitution, and an emphasis on privacy. These features, combined with no residency requirements, are expected to appeal to entrepreneurs, investors, and high-net-worth individuals seeking borderless financial freedom.

“This is more than just a financial centre,” President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu said during the official announcement. “With the MIFC, we are shaping the Maldives of tomorrow—a beacon of innovation and national pride that thrives in harmony with nature. It will be a symbol of economic resilience that will benefit our people for generations.”

The futuristic development will span 780,000 square meters and include three iconic towers hosting global headquarters and regional offices, luxury seafront residences, and international hotel brands. It will also offer a robust mix of amenities including an international school, Oceanographic Museum, mosque, and cutting-edge education and cultural institutions.

The centrepiece of the district will be a state-of-the-art convention centre with a capacity for 3,500 attendees. Designed to host global conferences, cultural festivals, and innovation-driven hackathons, it is expected to position Malé as a year-round hub for international gatherings and thought leadership.

“This is a momentous project,” said Moosa Zameer, Minister of Finance and Planning. “It aligns with our vision of economic diversification and positions the Maldives as a competitive player in the global financial arena.”

MBS Global Investments’ CEO Nadeem Hussain described the development as “the next evolution” of global financial centres. “MIFC will advance financial innovation by at least two decades,” he stated, highlighting the zone’s support for digital assets, green finance, and offshore private banking.

Designed by internationally acclaimed architect Gianni Ranaulo, the entire development is inspired by the Maldives’ marine ecosystem. Every building will incorporate eco-conscious design principles, with the upper level of the site remaining entirely car-free. All transportation and logistics will be handled underground to maintain an open-air, pedestrian-friendly environment.

MIFC will be powered entirely by renewable energy and will include state-of-the-art sports complexes, wellness and longevity centres, and extensive green spaces with shaded cycling and running paths. The district is expected to accommodate more than 6,500 residents and welcome over 35,000 visitors daily, significantly boosting the Maldives’ GDP within four years and generating projected revenues exceeding $1 billion by the fifth year.

MIFC stands as a bold testament to the Maldives’ forward-looking vision—ushering in an era where finance, innovation, sustainability, and lifestyle converge to create one of the most desirable destinations to live, work, and invest.