Maldives Financial Expo 2026 opens at Hulhumalé with 38 exhibitors

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu opened the Maldives Financial Expo 2026 on Thursday at Hulhumalé Central Park. The three-day event brings together 38 exhibitors from banks, insurance companies, financial institutions, government agencies, regulators, and fintech providers.

The Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) organized the expo. It marks the regulator's 45th anniversary. The event runs from July 2 to July 4 under the theme "Empowering Sustainable Futures: Inclusion, Innovation, and Intelligence." It is the first expo of its kind in nine years.

MMA Governor Ahmed Munawar welcomed the President at the venue. The President then toured the exhibition and met representatives of participating institutions.

Financial literacy and inclusion in focus

The MMA said the expo aims to strengthen financial literacy and promote financial inclusion. It also aims to showcase new technology in the country's financial sector.

Visitors can attend financial literacy programs, workshops, and expert panel discussions during the three days. Exhibitors are demonstrating products and services in banking, insurance, investment, digital payments, financial planning, and entrepreneurship.

The expo follows the inaugural Maldives Financial Sector Awards. The MMA held the awards on Tuesday evening. The awards recognized institutions and individuals in categories including financial inclusion, digital finance, SME finance, and green finance. The MMA also honored former Governors and Vice Governors for their service.

Family activities and prizes

The MMA designed the expo as a family-friendly event. A Children's Evening is scheduled for Friday, July 3, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. It will include interactive games, entertainment, and cartoon mascot appearances. Food kiosks will sell snacks and refreshments throughout the event.

Live outdoor performances are planned each evening. Scheduled performers include Time Academy of Performing Arts, Shalabee Ibrahim, Falih Duo, Heyvalla Boduberu, Saadha Thirees Asheh Boduberu and The Clio. Fireworks displays are set for July 3 and July 4 at 10:00 p.m.

The Bank of Maldives is sponsoring a grand prize of MVR 25,000. The MMA will give away 15 Apple iPads over three days, with five winners drawn daily. The MMA will also present 21 commemorative MVR 5,000 banknotes, with seven winners selected each day.

Exhibitors are offering additional prizes. These include gift cards worth MVR 5,000, MVR 1,000 and MVR 500, an Apple iPad, two pairs of Apple AirPods, two MacBook Neo laptops and a three night full board holiday for two at Araiku Beach Village in Haa Alifu Hoarafushi.

The expo remains open to the public at Hulhumalé Central Park until July 4.