Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has stated that the deal between the Maldives government and Abu Dhabi developer Eagle Hills for a USD 20 billion waterfront and marina project is "certainly unlawful" and must not be endorsed by the incoming government.

During a Thursday evening meeting at the People’s National Front (PNF) headquarters, Yameen charged the government with "selling the future of the people" through a 99-year agreement.

Yameen stated that no administration possesses the legal authority to enter into long-term agreements that restrict future generations.

"This is not a requirement that any government possesses under any legislation, neither here nor anywhere globally." No legislation in the Maldives permits the government to restrict the future of the people in this manner. A robbery of our future is taking place. Since the whole agreement is unlawful, the succeeding government that assumes power is not required to acknowledge it.

Yameen additionally claimed that Rasmale’ is not the original idea of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, asserting that the initiative is being undertaken “for a particular purpose” instead of true public benefit.

The agreement with Eagle Hills, a major foreign investment initiative in Maldivian history, was executed during a ceremony in Dubai. The event saw attendance from Mohamed Alabbar, the founder of Emaar Properties, known for developing the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, as well as chairman of Eagle Hills, along with high-ranking Maldivian officials.

The Rasmale’ project represents the Maldives’ most extensive land reclamation effort, aiming to recover over 1,100 hectares and develop 65,000 residential units. The authorities claim the initiative will alleviate traffic in Malé and enhance economic development, yet no detailed schedule has been provided.