President Announces Installation of U.S. Dollar ATM in Thoddoo to Help Boost Local Tourism

The government plans to enhance banking services with the installation of a U.S. dollar ATM in Thoddoo, Alifu Alifu Atoll, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has assured. This announcement was made during his visit to Thoddoo on Sunday morning, as part of his ongoing two-day tour of several islands in Alifu Alifu and Kaafu Atolls.

During his address to the Thoddoo community, President Dr Muizzu highlighted the flourishing local tourism sector on the island and the residents’ commitment to further promoting it. Tourist arrivals to Thoddoo are expected to increase in the near future, making it essential for residents to have easy access to deposit and withdraw U.S. dollars from their bank accounts, he noted.

“As part of our administration’s policies on ensuring equitable services for all citizens, a U.S. Dollar ATM will be installed on the island,” President Dr. Muizzu stated. “I will instruct the Bank of Maldives [Plc. Ltd. (BML)] to make the necessary arrangements.“

The President also highlighted that Thoddoo currently hosts around 50 guesthouses, with 40 additional projects underway. The flourishing local tourism industry in Thoddoo could attract over 3,000 visitors in the coming years, he projected.

In his speech, President Dr Muizzu also reiterated his administration’s commitment to providing access to banking services across the country. He announced plans to establish ATMs in all inhabited islands by the end of 2025, with installations from both BML and Maldives Islamic Bank (MIB). The administration also aims to establish bank outlets or branches in islands with high populations, he added.

Currently, the only U.S. dollar ATM outside of the capital Malé is located on Maafushi, Kaafu Atoll.