The Maldives government has started dismantling the bridge platform at a prominent location, paving the way for a state-of-the-art surfing stadium. This new development is expected to enhance the country's ability to host international surfing competitions, positioning the Maldives as a key destination for global surfing and bodyboarding events.
The Surfing Stadium Project
According to officials from the Ministry of Sports, Fitness, and Recreation, the project to construct the international standard surfing and bodyboarding stadium has been awarded to Rotime Engineering and Technology, a company based in Hong Kong. This marks a significant step towards expanding the Maldives’ infrastructure to support world-class sporting events.
The agreement to build the stadium was officially signed in April. While the total cost of the project remains undisclosed, the stadium is expected to feature cutting-edge facilities for athletes and spectators alike. However, the timeline for the project's completion has not been provided, and the government has yet to announce a specific date for the stadium’s opening.
Enhancing the Maldives' Reputation in International Surfing
Sports Minister Abdulla Rafiu highlighted that the construction of the stadium is part of a broader strategy to address the challenges faced by the Maldives when hosting international surfing competitions. With its pristine beaches and ideal weather conditions, the Maldives has long been a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, yet the lack of a dedicated venue for major events has limited its potential.
In recent years, the Maldives has hosted several high-profile surfing and bodyboarding events, including the prestigious 'Visit Maldives Pro' in 2022, which was a key stop on the International Bodyboarding Corporation (IBC) World Tour. The success of this event, along with the Maldives' inclusion in the IBC’s Tour Calendar, further reinforces the country's potential to become a leading venue for water sports competitions.
The Dismantling of the Bridge Platform
The bridge viewing platform, which previously cost over MVR 8 million to construct during former President Abdulla Yameen’s administration, is now being dismantled to make way for the new stadium. The platform was originally funded by STRADA, the operators of NewPort, who also received land rights to build a restaurant at the location in exchange for their investment.
Although the bridge platform was a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, the move to replace it with a dedicated surfing stadium reflects the growing importance of the Maldives in the global surfing scene. As more international events are expected to take place in the country, the need for specialized infrastructure has become increasingly clear.
With the new surfing stadium, the Maldives is set to attract more global attention for its surfing and bodyboarding events. This investment in sports infrastructure is expected to boost the local economy, create new job opportunities, and further establish the Maldives as a premier destination for water sports. As the country continues to build its reputation in the international sporting community, the future looks bright for athletes and fans alike.
