The man behind Maldives’ most beautiful mosque, Mohamed Ali, passes away

Mohamed Ali, the businessman who built one of the most admired mosques in the Maldives, passed away on Sunday evening at the age of 91 while undergoing treatment in India.  

Ali, who spent his later years in a wheelchair, was widely respected for his contributions to Eydhafushi and for funding the construction of Masjid al-Mohamed Ali, described as one of the most beautiful mosques in the country.  

The mosque, which began operations four years ago and was officially opened on March 20 last year, quickly became a landmark for its distinctive Islamic design rarely seen in the Maldives. The two‑storey mosque can accommodate up to 1,200 worshippers at a time.  

Inspired by architectural styles from Oman, Uzbekistan, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, the mosque has drawn visitors from across the country who come to admire its intricate design and craftsmanship.  

Beyond the mosque, Mohamed Ali played a key role in the development of Eydhafushi. He owned fishing and cargo vessels, managed uninhabited islands in Baa Atoll, and established farms and poultry businesses. His work and philanthropy left a lasting impact on the island community.