News Desk
The circulation of 100‑rufiyaa notes has climbed sharply across the Maldives, driven by the rapid expansion of ATMs and a fresh supply of newly printed currency. The Maldives Monetary Authority said a new series of notes has entered the system to ease shortages.
Officials confirmed that the latest batch includes the first notes signed by the current governor. The MMA said the 100‑rufiyaa denomination is now the second most circulated note in the country, trailing only the 500‑rufiyaa note.
Data show a steady rise in both denominations over the past four years.
Circulation of 100‑ and 500‑Rufiyaa Notes
- 2022: 2,846,833 million (100) | 6,004,881 million (500)
- 2023: 2,964,059 million (100) | 6,612,421 million (500)
- 2024: 3,114,536 million (100) | 6,129,837 million (500)
- 2025: 3,520,665 million (100) | 6,530,068 million (500)
In total, 25,277,207 million notes are in circulation. Of these, 12,446,093 million are 100‑rufiyaa notes.
The MMA said new printing was necessary for several reasons. Notes wear out as they pass from hand to hand. Faded or damaged notes become difficult to authenticate. ATMs reject worn currency. As the economy grows, the volume of cash required for daily transactions also increases.
The current series traces its roots to the Golden Five collection, issued in 2015 to mark the 50th anniversary of Maldivian independence. The notes are printed on polymer, which extends their lifespan. The designs were created by artist Abdullah Nasheed and highlight the country’s culture, economy, and natural environment.
Officials say the latest injection of currency will help stabilize cash availability as ATM use continues to rise nationwide.
