The Business Center Corporation (BCC) has said that the application window for the highly anticipated Maldives Expo 2026 is now open, with a deadline for initial registrations set for 31 August.
In a significant shift from previous years, the corporation has introduced a phased application process designed to maximise participation and flexibility for local exhibitors.
This year's expansive exhibition will showcase Maldivian innovation and enterprise across 73 distinct categories within 16 diverse fields. Eligibility is broad, open to any Maldivian citizen over the age of 13, companies with 100 percent Maldivian ownership, government entities, educational institutions, city and island councils, and persons with special needs.
Explaining the new two-stage application system, BCC Deputy Managing Director Samih Adam explained that the initial phase requires only basic information.
"The most important purpose is to give the opportunity to submit an application even if the product information is not known at this stage," he said.
Applicants are only required to provide their personal details, select their desired category, and indicate the number of items they plan to exhibit by the 31 August deadline. This allows the BCC to effectively plan the layout and scale of the event.
"So far, some people may not be sure which products to display. It's very important for us to know how many products will be on display," Samih added.
Full product details can be finalised and submitted in the second phase, which remains open until 15 September. The new process has already seen a strong response, with over 180 applications received to date.
A notable addition to this year’s Expo is the introduction of a dedicated category for religious content. The BCC highlighted this as a pivotal opportunity for Islamic educators, religious awareness activists, and content creators to present their work on a national platform, further enriching the diversity of the exhibition.
Interested parties are encouraged to submit their initial applications before the 31 August deadline to secure their space at Maldives Expo 2026.