Visit Maldives Corporation (VM) spent MVR 1.5 million on the New Year’s Eve drone show, according to information released under the Right to Information Act.
In response to Sun’s inquiry, VM said the show was held with the permission of the Ministry of Defence and cost USD 100,000, equivalent to MVR 1,542,000.
The New Year’s Eve “Pyro Drone” show, which featured a storyline narrated from a child’s perspective, received strong public praise. More than 600 drones were used in the display.
A similar drone show drew attention during the opening ceremony of the new terminal at Velana International Airport. That event also featured fireworks launched simultaneously from 19 locations, 16 at sea around Male' and three within the airport area. While some expenses from the ceremony were not disclosed, MVR 18.9 million was spent on the portions that were made public.
From the drone show held to inaugurate the opening of the VIA terminal on July 26, 2025. (Photo/MACL)
The opposition has criticised the government for spending large sums on drone shows at a time when international financial institutions have repeatedly advised the Maldives to reduce state expenditure.