Former President Mohamed Nasheed has warned that personally targeting Mohamed Alabbar, chairman of UAE-based developer Eagle Hills, over the Ras Malé project could damage the Maldives’ investment interests.
In a message to the Maldivian Democratic Party’s National Council WhatsApp group, Nasheed cautioned that harassment directed at Alabbar could undermine existing UAE investments and potentially lead to their suspension.
His remarks followed a parliamentary initiative by MDP MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem raising concerns about the government’s agreement with Eagle Hills. Nasheed reminded council members that the MDP had already issued an official statement on the project.
He also referenced the earlier expulsion of former MP Ali Azim from the party for speaking against party policies while in Parliament, indirectly urging members to adhere to established positions.
The Maldives Waterfront and Marina is a proposed mixed-use development in Rasmalé. The government and Eagle Hills signed a commercial terms agreement on 21 September 2026 outlining the principal framework, with detailed terms to be developed as the project progresses.
Nasheed has previously indicated he is in principle favourable to the project, with his main concern relating to its location in the Greater Male’ Area.
The warning adds to ongoing internal and public debate over the large-scale foreign investment.
