Pakistan to Finance International Cricket Stadium in Maldives

Pakistan has agreed to provide financial assistance for the construction of an international-standard cricket stadium in Gulhifalhu, Maldives. The project is part of efforts to enhance sports cooperation between the two nations.

Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced the initiative during a press conference on November 9, stating that construction work would begin soon. The announcement follows Muizzu’s official visit to Pakistan from October 20 to 22, during which the two countries signed 20 memorandums of understanding (MoUs), including one focused on sports cooperation.

Maldives’ Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness, Abdulla Rafiu, confirmed that land has already been identified for the stadium in Gulhifalhu. He added that arrangements are underway for a delegation from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to visit the Maldives and conduct feasibility studies before construction begins. However, the estimated cost, seating capacity, and construction timeline for the stadium have not yet been disclosed.

The development comes years after India pledged support for a cricket stadium in Hulhumalé in 2019. The earlier project, proposed under the previous Maldivian government, was expected to accommodate 22,000 spectators at an estimated cost of $40 million to $45 million. However, construction never began.

The Maldives has been an associate member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) since 2017 but still lacks a dedicated cricket ground with a natural grass pitch. Meanwhile, President Muizzu has also announced plans for several other projects aimed at improving sports infrastructure across the Greater Malé region.