On Monday, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) signed an agreement with Beijing Urban Construction Group (BUCG) for the development of a monorail system linking Malé and K. Funadhoo.

The monorail will serve as a crucial element of the Special Economic and Financial Service Zone initiative.

Originally announced in May by Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed, the project will be funded by the UAE’s International Free Zone Authority (IFZA).

The signing ceremony, held on Monday, was attended by Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, CEO and Managing Director of MACL, and Lu Wei, General Manager of BUCG, who signed on behalf of their respective organizations.

This monorail system will connect Hulhule airport island with Malé and Hulhumale, integrating with the Sinamale Bridge.

The development forms part of a larger Economic Zone Development Project, which includes the establishment of the West Side Commercial Hub and improved connectivity to the main airport.

As part of this initiative, the current seaplane terminal on Hulhule will be relocated to Funadhoo.

The project also includes plans for shopping centres, hotels, convention facilities, and entertainment venues.

President Mohamed Muizzu emphasized the significance of a connected public transport system, such as the monorail, in enhancing travel for passengers, customers, and employees throughout the region.