Dr. Abdulla Muthalib, Minister of Infrastructure, Housing, and Urban Development, announced on Monday night that the state's estimated total expenditure for reclaiming 1,009 hectares for Rasmalé is around USD 330 million.

The Minister responded to a question from a member of the public at the government's Ahaa forum.

The inquiry aimed to clarify the overall spending needed from the state budget and additional resources to finalize the reclamation of Rasmalé, given the differing figures in circulation concerning the project's expenses.

In response to the question, the Minister stated that at the outset of the Rasmalé project, the projected cost was between USD 500 million and USD 700 million. He mentioned that these preliminary estimates were founded on current market rates and the costs incurred by the former administration for the reclamation of Gulhifalhu and Giraavarufalhu, which included shore protection projects.

Dr. Abdulla Muthalib, Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, responds to inquiries at the 11th Ahaa Forum on November 9, 2026. (Photo/Office of the President)

The Minister stated that costs were greatly lowered by assigning the project to state-owned companies and renting dredgers to enhance cost-effectiveness. The government intends to finish the entire project by year-end, he mentioned that restoring the complete 1,009 hectares is projected to require around USD 330 million, with about USD 160 million set aside for the initial 500 hectares.

"While a minor segment will still be unclaimed by the end of this year, our goal is to complete the reclamation of Rasmalé within this period." At that point, the spending is expected to be around USD 330 million. Minister Muthalib stated, "The total projected expense to the state for the reclamation of Rasmalé covering 1,009 hectares is USD 330 million."