President’s Relative and UAE Deputy Ambassador Axed Over Secret Islands Lease to Indian-Linked Firm

08 Sep, 2026
1 min read

Deputy Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates Hassan Waheed has been sacked from his post after acquiring state islands for private resort development through a company in which he holds shares, though authorities have yet to launch any formal questioning into whether he abused his influence.

The dismissal follows public outrage over leaked documents circulating on social media, which showed that three islands in Thaa Atoll were allocated to Ayatanaip Hospitilities Private Limited. Hassan, a relative of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, holds shares in the company alongside Indian investors.

Addressing the matter, President Muizzu stated that he questioned Hassan directly after learning about the transaction and verified the details himself through the Economic Ministry’s online registry portal.

“I do not accept anyone holding a government post doing such a thing. That is why he has now been dismissed from his job,” President Muizzu said.

Despite his immediate removal from office, state authorities have not initiated any formal investigation or questioning regarding Hassan’s potential misuse of official status and political leverage to secure the lucrative tourism assets. The controversial handover has drawn sharp backlash from the public, with critics highlighting the clear conflict of interest in a sitting diplomat obtaining state property for personal commercial ventures.

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