About Us​

The Heritage Association was founded with a profound purpose: to preserve, celebrate, and share the unique history and cultural heritage of the Maldives, beginning with Addu Atoll. Our journey began with a group of dedicated historians, preservationists, and cultural advocates who recognized the urgent need to protect the region’s historical sites, stories, and artifacts for future generations. From architectural marvels to cultural rituals, Addu Atoll’s heritage provides a rich tapestry that deserves a place in the world’s cultural narrative.

Heritage Association believes that by preserving these cultural landmarks and traditions, we foster a sense of belonging and pride among Maldivians, as well as intrigue and appreciation from visitors around the world.

Our organisation documents can be viewed from the below links:

Our Mission

Our mission is simple yet profound:
“To preserve, educate, and inspire through the rich heritage of the Maldives.”

We are committed to safeguarding historical sites, advocating for their protection, and ensuring they remain accessible to all. Through our work, we aim to make the Maldives’ heritage more than a memory—creating a living archive that the world can explore and celebrate.

Core Objectives:

  1. Preservation – Identify and protect historical sites across the Maldives, starting with Addu Atoll, and facilitate the restoration of these sites where needed.
  2. Education – Create awareness among local communities and visitors, promoting a deep understanding of the cultural significance of these sites.
  3. Community Engagement – Work with local communities, schools, and organizations to encourage collective preservation efforts and instill pride in cultural heritage.
  4. Tourism and Accessibility – Partner with sustainable tourism initiatives to ensure these sites are accessible to both locals and international visitors in a way that respects and conserves them.

Our Vision

We envision a future where every historical site in the Maldives is preserved and cherished, where each story is passed down through generations, and where heritage is a foundation of pride and cultural identity.

Through this vision, Heritage Association aims to become the leading authority on cultural preservation in the Maldives, inspiring similar efforts in regions beyond Addu Atoll.

What We Do

Site Restoration and Conservation
Heritage Association works closely with conservation experts to restore and maintain key heritage sites. Our team includes historians, architects, and artisans who specialize in Maldivian heritage. Together, they help to ensure the integrity of these sites and bring them back to life for future generations.

Educational Programs
We believe that the key to long-term preservation lies in education. Our programs engage students, residents, and tourists alike, offering workshops, lectures, and guided tours that delve into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of Addu Atoll.

Digital Archives
As part of our commitment to accessibility, we are creating a digital archive where visitors from all over the world can explore Addu Atoll’s heritage. This platform will feature interactive maps, video tours, and oral histories, making cultural exploration accessible to all.

Community Collaborations
We collaborate with local communities to foster a shared sense of ownership. Our projects involve partnerships with artisans, local leaders, and volunteers, creating sustainable conservation practices and empowering residents to be stewards of their heritage.