Nasheed warns targeting Alabbar could harm UAE investment in Maldives

Former President Mohamed Nasheed has warned that personally targeting Mohamed Alabbar, chairman of UAE-based developer Eagle Hills, over the Ras Malé development project could damage the Maldives’ investment interests.

In a message to the Maldivian Democratic Party’s (MDP) National Council WhatsApp group, Nasheed cautioned that harassment directed at Alabbar could undermine existing UAE investments in the country and potentially lead to their suspension.

His remarks followed a parliamentary initiative by MDP MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem raising concerns about the government’s agreement with Eagle Hills.

Nasheed also reminded council members that the MDP had already issued an official statement on the project.

Referring to former MP Ali Azim’s dismissal from the party, he said Azim had been expelled for speaking against party policies while serving in Parliament.

The MDP’s statement welcomed foreign investment while calling on the government to disclose the agreement’s full terms and explain the arrangements to the public.

President Mohamed Muizzu has said details of the agreement would be shared with the relevant parliamentary committees.

The Maldives Waterfront and Marina is a proposed mixed-use development in Rasmalé by Abu Dhabi-based developer Eagle Hills.

The government and the company signed a commercial terms agreement on 21 September 2026, setting out the project’s principal commercial framework, with detailed terms to be developed as it progresses.

Plans include hotels, residences, a marina, waterfront promenades, retail and dining facilities, alongside education, healthcare and community infrastructure compliance with Maldivian law.