In a major boost for the Maldives’ digital economy, Ooredoo Fintech and PayPal have announced plans to collaborate on introducing PayPal services in the country — a long-awaited development that has been warmly welcomed by the government.
The initiative aligns with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s pledge to expand access to modern financial services, including international digital payment platforms.
According to the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, the collaboration marks a key step in the administration’s broader vision to build a connected, innovation-driven economy. The ministry said the move supports the national strategy to enhance financial inclusion and enable Maldivians to participate fully in global e-commerce.
Under the proposed partnership, consumers in the Maldives will be able to shop with PayPal merchants worldwide and transfer funds seamlessly between their PayPal and Ooredoo m-Faisaa digital wallets. Maldivian businesses, freelancers, and content creators will gain new opportunities to sell and receive payments internationally, strengthening their presence in the global digital marketplace.
Ooredoo Fintech said the service is expected to go live in 2026, describing the collaboration as a transformative leap toward a fully digital financial ecosystem that benefits both consumers and enterprises.
In a statement, the Ministry said the government remains committed to introducing convenient and secure digital payment options and improving the national e-wallet system. The launch of PayPal, it added, represents a major advancement in modernising the financial sector, supporting innovation, and empowering Maldivians to connect with international markets.
Welcoming the announcement, Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed called it a “transformative initiative” made possible through close coordination between PayPal, Ooredoo Fintech, and national stakeholders including the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA).
“This milestone reflects our government’s commitment from day one to strengthening the financial ecosystem, overcoming barriers, and creating new opportunities for Maldivians to thrive in the global digital economy,” Minister Saeed said in a social media post, thanking all partners involved.
PayPal — a global leader in online payments — has long been requested by local entrepreneurs and young professionals seeking reliable access to global financial platforms. Once launched, the partnership is expected to simplify online transactions, enhance cross-border business, and unlock earning opportunities for a new generation of Maldivian creators and startups.
The initiative underscores President Muizzu’s commitment to positioning the Maldives as a digitally empowered economy, where technology serves as a bridge between local talent and global opportunity.
