In the ever-evolving landscape of the telecommunications industry in the Maldives, one company has been leading the industry as a pioneer for over three decades; Dhivehi Raajjeyge Gulhun Plc (Dhiraagu). Since its inception in 1988, Dhiraagu has been at the forefront of connecting people, enriching lives, and transforming the way Maldivians communicate.
Celebrating 35 years of achievements, the company has consistently strived to provide innovative services and enhance connectivity for the nation, transforming the digital landscape of the country.
1988 to 2000 - Establishing Telecommunication Connectivity in the Maldives
Dhiraagu embarked on its journey on October 1, 1988, as the country’s first telecommunications service provider. This marked the beginning of the Maldivian telecommunications era.
Within just one year of operation, Dhiraagu expanded its telephone lines using a digital exchange established in Malé. This step was instrumental in improving the overall quality and accessibility of telecommunications services nationwide.
The introduction of paging services in 1991 was another significant milestone right around the inception-era which enhanced mobile communication options. The service introduction was targeted to meet the growing demands for on-the-go connectivity.
Dhiraagu introduced card phone services across the Maldives, making it easier for individuals to make calls and connect with each other, one of the most crucial focal points for the company’s trajectory.
In 1995, Dhiraagu initiated the National Telephone Rollout Program, a milestone effort that greatly expanded telephone accessibility for individuals throughout the Maldives. This program also played a crucial role in connecting remote regions and ensuring that no one was left without access to telecommunications services.
In the same year, the company made strides by installing a satellite earth station and a telephone exchange in Addu atoll which extended telecommunication services for the residents in the southern parts of the country.
Dhiraagu’s introduction of internet services in the Maldives in 1996, marked a turning point for both the company and for the country, which was the steppingstone for the Maldives joining the digital age.
The company then launched GSM mobile services in 1997, revolutionizing the way Maldivians communicated, and paved the way for the mobile era.
2001 to 2011 – Widest Coverage in the Maldives
The launch of SMS services in 2001 by Dhiraagu, further revolutionized the means of communication to the people in the country.
In 2002, Dhiraagu introduced broadband ADSL services allowing people to enjoy faster and more reliable internet connections.
This was further bolstered in 2006 by inaugurating the first international fiber optic submarine cable linking the Maldives and Sri Lanka.
Implementation of the domestic submarine cable across the Channel in 2007 was another step that further strengthened the digital backbone of the country and reduced dependency on satellite connections.
Dhiraagu’s commitment to ensure connectivity across the Maldives took another stride in 2008, as it was the pioneer in providing 100 percent mobile coverage to all inhabited islands, resorts, and major industrial islands.
In 2009, Dhiraagu introduced 3G mobile services bringing faster data speeds and improved mobile experiences to the Maldives.
2011 to Present – Transforming the Maldivian Digital Landscape
A year later in 2012, Dhiraagu completed the 1,253-kilometer domestic submarine cable project which was crucial in the company’s journey towards improved domestic connectivity.
Dhiraagu launched the first LTE-Advanced (4G+) service in the South Asian region and completed the first nationwide coverage for mobile broadband services in 2015, ensuring that all people living in area of the Maldives had access to the internet.
In 2017, Dhiraagu became synonymous with innovation with the launch of DhiraaguTV, which marked the first commercial-level Over-the-Top (OTT) and Video on Demand (VOD) service in the Maldives. Additionally, DhiraaguPay was introduced as a mobile digital wallet to enhance payment options for consumers.
The company completed the nationwide 4G network expansion initiative in 2018 and ensured a larger consumer base experienced fast and reliable mobile internet.
In 2019, Dhiraagu expanded its fiber broadband network to 75 percent of national households and in the same year, the company achieved another milestone by becoming the first in the Maldives and in South Asia to launch commercial 5G services, ushering in a new era of digital connectivity.
The successful landing of the second Maldives-Sri Lanka (MSC) submarine cable in the Maldives in 2020 marked yet another significant achievement.
Just two years later, in 2022, Dhiraagu became a member of the SEA-ME-WE 6 consortium. This development connected the island nation to the global superhighway and opened the door for to have access to more resilience, reliable digital infrastructure, and improved service quality.
In 2023, Dhiraagu reached another milestone by providing fiber broadband services to 90 percent of households nationwide, ensuring that the vast majority of the population had access to high-speed internet.
Dhiraagu - 35 Years of Connecting the Maldives
Over the course of 35 years, Dhiraagu has been a consistent game-changer in the Maldivian telecommunications landscape, renowned for its daring approach to pushing the boundaries of technological innovation. Whether it's connecting remote islands, pioneering 5G technology, or enhancing international connectivity, Dhiraagu's journey spanning over three decades stands as a testament to transformation, progress, and unwavering success.
As the company celebrates its 35th anniversary, Dhiraagu remains committed to enriching lives and driving the Maldives into a brighter, more connected future.