Damas Salih bestowed Order of the Dignified Rule of the Muleege Dynasty

Prominent local businessman, Mohamed Salih (Damas Salih), has been bestowed the Order of the Dignified Rule of the Muleege Dynasty (ODRMD).

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu conferred the bestowed the Order of the Dignified Rule of the Muleege Dynasty to Salih in recognition of outstanding contributions to the expansion and advancement of the Maldives' trade and economy.

Salih was formally presented with the honor at the official reception held on Tuesday morning to commemorate this year’s Republic Day.

Solih has been a key figure in advancing various sectors of the Maldivian economy. His career includes significant contributions during the formative years of the nation’s tourism industry. As the first Managing Director of the Maldives Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), he played a crucial role in expanding the sector and positioning the Maldives as a leading global tourist destination. He also contributed to the establishment of Herethere Resort, supporting tourism growth in Addu Atoll.

Beyond tourism, Solih’s business ventures have extended into wholesale and retail trade, real estate, and other essential business services. His companies engaged in large-scale trading activities and offered real estate and interior design solutions. He also pioneered several new services in the Maldives, including cargo shipping operations, the import and sale of Yanmar engines, technologically integrated grouper and lobster fisheries, and early internet-based business services. Additionally, he served as President of the Maldives National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI).

In the healthcare sector, Solih founded Medica Hospital, a private institution providing modern medical services.

Alongside his business pursuits, Solih served on various state boards and committees under former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s administration. He also represented Thailand in the Maldives as the Honorary Consul for a decade, for which he was awarded the Medal of Civilian Honors by the King of Thailand.

In recognition of his longstanding service, Solih received the National Award of Honor in 2022 and the President’s Tourism Gold Award on the 50th anniversary of the Maldivian tourism industry. Most recently, President Dr. Muizzu presented him with a special award for strengthening business relations between the Maldives and Singapore.