In a major advancement for luxury tourism and digital infrastructure, Ooredoo Maldives has officially connected the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi resort to its high-capacity submarine cable network, making it the Maldives’ first private island with 5G connectivity.
The submarine cable runs through Maafushi and connects directly to Ooredoo’s advanced data center in Hulhumalé, bringing high-speed, dual-redundant fiber connectivity to the South Malé Atoll. This upgrade ensures faster internet, greater network resilience, and seamless digital services for guests, aligning with the Maldives’ vision of merging natural beauty with cutting-edge technology.
A landing ceremony was held at the resort to commemorate the project’s completion. Among those in attendance were the Maldives’ Minister of Tourism and Environment, Hon. Thoriq Ibrahim; Ooredoo Maldives CEO and MD, Khalid Al-Hamadi; Waldorf Astoria Maldives General Manager, TJ Joulak; Chief Executive of the Communication Authority of Maldives, Ilyas Ibrahim; and Maafushi City Council President, Hassan Solah, along with senior officials and dignitaries.
Khalid Al-Hamadi, CEO of Ooredoo Maldives, at the Submarine Cable Landing Event
Al-Hamadi emphasized the strategic importance of the development in his remarks:
For 20 years, Ooredoo Maldives has led the nation’s telecom industry, driving innovation and digital growth. The cable landing at the first private 5G-ready island resort marks a major step toward Digital Maldives, bridging the digital divide and empowering communities. With dual redundancy, ready for private 5G, artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled capabilities, and now a dedicated submarine cable, this resort sets a new benchmark for digital innovation in hospitality.
TJ Joulak, General Manager of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, at the Submarine Cable Landing Event
Joulak expressed his appreciation during the ceremony:
We are pleased to have hosted this milestone event at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi. As a destination that embodies elevated luxury and personalized service, we recognize the importance of seamless connectivity in supporting the evolving needs of today’s global travelers.
Thoriq Ibrahim, Minister of Ministry of Tourism and Environment, at the Submarine Cable Landing Event
Minister Ibrahim also underscored the wider national significance of the project:
Since their start in 2005, Ooredoo Maldives has made remarkable strides to ensure no one is left behind in the digital journey. With every advancement, they’ve focused on accessibility and inclusion. This submarine cable landing marks yet another proud milestone—particularly historic as the first-of-its-kind at a tourist resort—bringing us closer to a fully connected, future-ready Maldives.
As Ooredoo Maldives marks its 20th anniversary, the company remains steadfast in supporting the nation’s development goals through its Digital Maldives initiative. This nationwide effort focuses on bridging the digital divide, empowering local communities, and ensuring inclusive access to advanced technology across the islands. The recent submarine cable deployment stands as a testament to Ooredoo’s commitment to creating a digitally connected Maldives, where cutting-edge infrastructure enhances everyday life while honoring the country’s rich cultural heritage.
