The Maldives has entered into a joint venture with Dubai-based MBS Global Investments to establish a large-scale blockchain and digital assets hub. This initiative arises amid the island nation's pursuit of alternative revenue streams, driven by increasing concerns over its external debt obligations. Named the Maldives International Financial Centre, the project is planned for construction in the capital city, Malé, over a five-year timeframe. According to the masterplan, the hub will cover 830, 000 square meters, accommodate up to 6, 500 residents, and provide employment for approximately 16, 000 people. It is designed as a financial free zone specializing in blockchain technologies and digital assets. Government forecasts suggest this development could triple the country’s GDP within four years and generate more than USD 1 billion annually by the fifth year. Investment size surpasses Maldives' GDP MBS Global Investments, a private family office managing an estimated USD 14 billion in assets, has pledged to lead the funding. Notably, the USD 8. 8 billion investment exceeds the Maldives’ current annual GDP of around USD 7 billion.

A spokesperson from MBS revealed that over USD 4–5 billion in funding has already been secured through a combination of equity and debt, sourced from a network of high-net-worth individuals and family offices. The representative acknowledged the enormity of the commitment but confirmed that partnerships and financial arrangements are in place to advance the project. Maldivian government officials see the venture as a strategic move to reduce reliance on tourism and fisheries. A finance ministry official described the country’s current financial difficulties as its ‘biggest challenge, ’ highlighting significant repayments due within the next two years. According to the Financial Times, debt obligations include USD 600–700 million due in 2025 and an additional USD 1 billion in 2026, which includes a USD 500 million sukuk issuance. Recently, the government accepted a USD 760 million support package from India to stave off default, while international ratings agencies continue to stress the nation’s vulnerability to external liquidity shocks. Maldivian officials pointed out that although traditional partners like India and China remain crucial for infrastructure and aid, the financial hub signals a strategic shift toward a commercially driven development model.