The Emirates News Agency reported that President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan sent a message of congratulations to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu of the Republic of Maldives on the occasion of the country’s Independence Day. Similar messages were dispatched by Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as well as Deputy President His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The communications expressed wishes for the continued progress and prosperity of the Maldivian people while highlighting the bonds of friendship between the two nations.
Diplomatic relations between the UAE and Maldives were established on March 15, 1978, according to bilateral records. The two countries cooperate within several international organizations where both hold membership. A bilateral investment treaty signed in 2017 entered into force in December 2024, data from the UNCTAD Investment Policy Hub shows.
The Observatory of Economic Complexity places UAE exports to the Maldives at $545 million against imports valued at $782,000, yielding a trade surplus of $544 million for the UAE. Officials from both sides have discussed ways to expand cooperation in tourism and the hospitality sectors, the UAE Ministry of Economy has stated. These economic ties provide a foundation for the diplomatic exchanges that occur on national occasions.
Maldives celebrates Independence Day each year on July 26 to mark its emergence from British rule in 1965. The occasion routinely prompts messages of goodwill from international partners including the UAE. Such gestures form part of a consistent pattern of mutual recognition maintained by the two governments.
President Muizzu has focused on deepening engagement with Gulf states since assuming office in 2023, according to regional diplomatic accounts. The UAE has supported development initiatives in the island nation across various sectors over the years. The latest round of congratulations reinforces the positive direction of bilateral relations.
