The distinguished award, which commemorates the rule of Al-Sultan Muhammad Shamsuddin, was presented during an official ceremony at the President’s Office, highlighting the deep appreciation of the Maldivian government and people for the vital role SFD has played in supporting national development goals.
The President's Office
During an official visit to the Maldives, the Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), His Excellency Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Murshid (O.D.R.M.D), paid a courtesy call on President Dr Mohamed Muizzu at the President’s Office on April 14, 2025. The meeting served as a platform to express mutual appreciation for the longstanding relationship between the Maldives and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and to explore new opportunities for bilateral collaboration in development and economic cooperation.
In recognition of His Excellency Al-Murshid’s extensive contributions toward the economic and social development of the Maldives through the Saudi Fund for Development, President Muizzu conferred upon him the Order of the Dignified Rule of Muleege Dynasty (O.D.R.M.D)—the highest civilian honour in the Maldives. The distinguished award, which commemorates the rule of Al-Sultan Muhammad Shamsuddin, was presented during an official ceremony at the President’s Office. It highlighted the deep appreciation of the Maldivian government and people for the vital role SFD has played in supporting national development goals and improving the lives of Maldivians across multiple sectors.
The Saudi Fund for Development has been a pivotal partner in the Maldives' development journey since 1978, providing concessional loans that have facilitated significant advancements in various sectors, including housing, healthcare, fisheries, and infrastructure. Notably, SFD's support was instrumental in the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami, aiding in relief, recovery, and reconstruction efforts. In recent years, SFD has also played a key-role in providing additional finances for the development of the ongoing Velana International Airport (VIA) expansion project – which is seen as one of the corner stones for development and job opportunities in the Maldives upon its completion.
