The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has officially commenced physical works on the harbour development project in Fodhdhoo, Noonu Atoll, a long-anticipated milestone that promises to transform the island’s accessibility and support its emerging local tourism economy.

Ads By Dhivehi Insurance Company

With a population of just over 500, Fodhdhoo has been gaining momentum as a guesthouse destination, currently home to five operational properties. However, residents and visitors have faced ongoing transport challenges due to the lack of a proper harbour. At present, only a single jetty is available, and it is functional solely during the western monsoon season. Concerns over the island’s limited access have been raised repeatedly by the local community.

In response, the government awarded the harbour construction contract to MTCC, with the practical phase of the project launching this week. The project carries a contract value of MVR 49.77 million (USD 3.23 million) and falls under the oversight of the Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure.

Under the revised design, which was updated following concerns raised by residents and the island’s parliamentarian, the project will deliver a harbour in line with national standards. The new layout includes a 300-metre-wide basin and a total water area of 467 metres. Dredging work will reach depths of 3.5 metres in the basin and 4 metres in the entrance channel.

The comprehensive construction package includes:

• Dredging of 30,648 cubic metres to form the harbour basin
• Dredging of 3,990 cubic metres to develop a connecting canal
• A 145-metre outer breakwater
• A 165-metre revetment
• A 130-metre quay wall
• A 125-metre-long, 6-metre-wide jetty
• 600 square metres of paved area
• Installation of navigation and harbour lighting

Ads By Timber House Pvt. Ltd

The harbour is scheduled for completion within 390 days.

MTCC noted that the harbour will offer a more spacious, modern, and safe maritime entry point for Fodhdhoo, supporting both daily life and economic activities. With local tourism on the rise, the new harbour is expected to significantly enhance the island’s appeal to investors and visitors alike.

“The lack of proper harbour infrastructure has long impacted the movement of people and goods to and from the island,” MTCC said in a statement. “This project will play a vital role in strengthening Fodhdhoo’s economy and resilience.”

Founded in 1980, MTCC is the Maldives’ first public company and continues to be a major force in national infrastructure development. With over four decades of experience, the company has delivered countless projects across the archipelago, from transport and harbour facilities to land reclamation and road construction.

The Fodhdhoo harbour project is one of several large-scale developments currently being undertaken by MTCC as part of a broader national effort to enhance inter-island connectivity and unlock economic potential across outer atolls.