Islamic Centre with 1,500 prayer-goer capacity to be developed in Addu

An agreement was executed on Friday for the development of an Islamic Centre in Addu City’s Hithadhoo district that can capacitate 1,500 prayer-goers simultaneously.

The agreement was signed during a special ceremony held at Addu City Council which was officiated by Vice President Faisal Naseem. The ceremony was also attended by Islamic Minister Dr. Ahmed Zahir Ali, Advisor to the President Musathafa Luthfy, Addu City Mayor Ali Nizar and Addu City councilors.

The project was contracted to Fedo Private Limited. The agreement was signed by Minister Zahir on behalf of the Islamic Ministry and Managing Director Ahmed Fayaz on behalf of Fedo.

As per the President’s Office, the Islamic Centre will comprise of a prayer area able to accommodate 1,500 people, a multi-purpose hall with seating for 450 people, four classrooms, two seminar rooms, an administrative office, an Islamic library, and a pantry.

The project was contracted to be completed within 450 days.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Zahir underscored it was Islamic Ministry’s first such project outside of Male’ area. He described the signing of the agreement as a close end to the long wait of Addu residents for such a facility in the city.

“I hope the Islamic Centre can be completed within the stipulated timeframe without delays and brought into use in accordance with the hopes of Addu residents,” he added.

Minister Zahir reassured cooperation from the Islamic Ministry for the project on all fronts.

Addu Mayor Nizar, who also spoke at the signing ceremony, said ages have passed since a mosque have been developed in Addu City with government funding. Nevertheless, he noted that the development of five mosques was underway in the city by the current administration.

He expressed hope the mosques, once completed, will pave for Addu City to become a region that further prioritizes religion.