President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has recognised the top exhibitors of the Maldives Expo 2025. The awards ceremony, held Thursday at the Maldives Centre for Social Education (MCSE), brought together innovators, artisans, and entrepreneurs in a celebration of national ingenuity. Presiding over the event, President Muizzu commended the winners for their contributions to creativity and craftsmanship.
Among the honourees, five exhibitors received the distinguished Golden Prize, the ceremony's highest recognition: Lujain Ali Waheed, Abudy MALDIVES, Maldives Polytechnic, Mohamed Moosa, and Ali Mahir.
Recognition was extended across nine competitive categories, acknowledging the diversity of talent across the country. Lujain Ali Waheed was awarded first place in the Individual category, while Villingili Council in Gaafu Alifu Atoll and Addu City Council earned top honours in the Island and City categories, respectively. CDC Kitchen Pvt Ltd secured the Business category award, and Maldives Polytechnic was named the winner in the Education Centre category. In the People with Disabilities Category, Fathimath Shafagath was recognised for her contributions, underscoring the importance of inclusive participation.
The ceremony also highlighted institutions and organisations instrumental in driving national development. The Women Entrepreneurs Association Maldives (WEAM) was awarded in the non-governmental organisation (NGO) category, and State Electric Company Limited (STELCO) received recognition in the state-owned enterprise category. Hithadhoo in Addu City secured first place in the City/Island Participation category, listed as City Level Participation 1st place, while Addu City was celebrated as the overall winner of Expo 2025. A total of 275 awards were presented during the evening.
The event serves as a broader platform to showcase Maldivian creativity and entrepreneurship, drawing 383 participants across 14 categories and 82 sub-categories. Handicrafts accounted for the largest share of submissions, reflecting a continued tradition of artisanal excellence. Contributions came from across the country, with Malé City and Thulhaadhoo in Baa Atoll submitting the highest number of entries. More than 3,600 items underwent evaluation before the exhibition, with over 3,500 products expected to be featured.
The decision to host Maldives Expo 2025 was formally approved by President Muizzu on 19 May 2024, following a Cabinet recommendation. Officials highlighted the expo's role in stimulating national productivity and economic growth, providing a space for both traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation to be celebrated and sustained.
Participation began in November 2024, facilitated by the Business Center Corporation (BCC), which has overseen the event's organisation. The exhibition is structured into dedicated thematic districts, including the Creative Economic District, Digital and Innovative District, Entertainment District, and Bazaar District, each offering visitors a distinct and immersive experience. The expo will be held at Central Park in Hulhumalé from 23 to 31 May, with its official public opening scheduled for 8:30 p.m. on Friday.
Maldives has hosted productivity exhibitions for decades, with the earliest recorded event dating back to 1944. Over the years, the format has evolved under different banners. Maldives Expo 2025 is recognised as the largest such event to date, marking its return after a six-year hiatus.