Bank of Maldives customers have reported difficulties withdrawing US dollars from ATMs in Malé and Hulhumalé for several consecutive days.
Several people said machines at Star Clouds on Majeedhee Magu were not dispensing dollars. Similar complaints appeared on social media about machines in Hulhumalé. Journalists observed groups of frustrated customers near dollar ATM locations.
One customer wrote that it was the third consecutive day that dollars could not be withdrawn from any BML ATM in Malé or Hulhumalé. Others questioned why funds sitting in their accounts could not be accessed in cash.
A BML spokesperson said a statement would be provided later, but no detailed public explanation of the disruption has been widely reported.
The Maldives has faced recurring foreign-currency shortages that affect banking services. In September, the bank reported delays in processing telegraphic transfers and interbank dollar movements due to increased outflows.
Dollar ATMs are a key source of cash for residents who hold foreign-currency accounts or need dollars for travel and other purposes. Prolonged outages create practical difficulties for households and small businesses.
BML is the largest bank in the country and operates the majority of ATMs. The latest reports add to a series of complaints about access to physical dollars during periods of tight foreign-exchange conditions.
No official timeline for restoring normal service has been released.
