In a landmark development for the Maldives’ digital transformation, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu officially launched PayPal services in the country, fulfilling one of his key presidential pledges and opening new opportunities for individuals and businesses to participate in the global digital economy.
The service was formally inaugurated by President Muizzu at a ceremony held at Barceló Nasandhura Malé, marking the culmination of a government-led initiative to introduce modern digital payment solutions and expand international financial access for Maldivians.
The PayPal service is being delivered through Ooredoo Maldives via its subsidiary, Techfin Maldives, which received an inward remittance licence in October 2025. Following a period of testing earlier this year, the service has now been fully integrated with Ooredoo m-Faisaa, allowing users to access PayPal services seamlessly.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, President Muizzu described the introduction of PayPal as a transformative step that removes one of the biggest barriers faced by Maldivian creators, freelancers, entrepreneurs and small businesses seeking access to international markets.
He said that despite the country's small size, his administration has refused to accept limitations on the opportunities available to Maldivians. With PayPal now available, the Maldives has established a direct gateway to the global marketplace, enabling local talent and businesses to connect with customers around the world.
Drawing parallels between the nation's past and future, the President noted that while the Maldives' ancestors connected the country to the world through maritime trade routes, the nation is now building new connections through the digital economy.
The launch forms part of the administration's broader "Maldives 2.0" vision, which aims to transform the country into a digitally driven economy. President Muizzu reiterated his government's target of increasing the digital sector's contribution to national GDP to at least 15 percent by 2030, supported by major infrastructure initiatives including the Dhivaru International Submarine Cable project being developed in partnership with Google.
The President also highlighted plans to establish a state-of-the-art Creator Hub, scheduled to open on 11 November. The facility will feature modern production studios, co-working spaces and digital innovation centres designed to support creative industries. Similar facilities are also planned across the atolls to ensure equal access to digital opportunities nationwide.
Calling on manufacturers, artisans, creators and entrepreneurs to seize the opportunities now available, President Muizzu urged Maldivians to showcase their products, services and creativity on the international stage.
Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed described the PayPal launch as a historic achievement that will significantly expand Maldivians' participation in the global digital economy.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Saeed said the initiative represents the outcome of efforts undertaken since President Muizzu assumed office on 17 November 2023. He noted that providing access to international digital payment systems was a key commitment of the administration and required overcoming numerous regulatory, legal and operational challenges.
According to the Minister, PayPal has long been viewed by Maldivians as the most important and widely desired international payment platform due to its dominant position in global online transactions. However, bringing the service to a small island nation required extensive groundwork and the establishment of a robust regulatory framework capable of meeting international standards.
He said that initial efforts during the first six months of the administration did not produce the desired outcomes, prompting the government to adopt new strategies and work closely with international stakeholders to build the trust and infrastructure necessary for PayPal's entry into the market.
Minister Saeed emphasised that strong leadership and strategic planning had demonstrated that neither the Maldives' small population nor its geographical characteristics should prevent the country from keeping pace with global technological developments. The President had directed authorities to modernise the country's financial framework within existing legal boundaries to ensure digital freedom and create new opportunities, particularly for young people and women, he added.
PayPal's Vice President and General Manager Amir Valliani also welcomed the launch, describing it as an important milestone that will securely connect Maldivian individuals and businesses with the global economy. He said the service supports the government's Maldives 2.0 agenda while creating valuable opportunities for freelancers, entrepreneurs and innovators to diversify economic activity and reach international customers.
Ooredoo Maldives Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Shadi Qawasmi described the launch as a major step forward in the country's digital transformation journey. He said the integration strengthens digital connectivity, supports the development of a resilient digital economy and expands international opportunities for Maldivians.
Qawasmi noted that as the Maldives continues its transition towards a fully digital future, the introduction of PayPal represents one of the most significant milestones achieved to date.
The government first announced its efforts to secure PayPal services for the Maldives in August 2024. With the successful rollout now complete, officials believe the country has further strengthened its position as one of the region's most digitally advanced economies and taken a significant step towards building a globally connected, innovation-driven future.
