Businesses given more time to vacate Carnival area

Businesses operating in the Alimas Ufa Carnival area have been given additional time to vacate.

The businesses were given three months to vacate the area as the government wants to maximize the space to run a number of development projects. Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure has now given a one-month extension to vacate the area.

This has been confirmed by an official from Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure, who said the ministry made the decision to extend the deadline as it will take some more time for the development projects to begin.

A number of cafes and restaurants operate in the Alimas Ufa Carnival area – a popular spot for citizens of Male’ City.

The businesses were given three months’ notice to vacate the area on June 5.

A number of businesses which had previously decided to pack up have decided to remain open with the decision to extend the deadline.

The gym “The Hammer” – which boasts over 4,000 members – has revised its decision to close down on September 1, and has opted instead to remain open.

Chairman of “The Hammer”, Ahmed Muaz reported to “Sun” that he has received a letter from Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure informing of its decision to extend the deadline. Muaz thanked the Ministry for the decision.

“It would have meant a huge loss to the business if we had to close down. Honestly speaking, I had been feeling hopeless. Many youths are invested in this gym. I convey huge thanks to President Abdulla Yameen [Abdul Gayoom] and Housing Minister Dr. [Mohamed] Muizzu for this decision. I now know where there is life, there’s hope,” said Muaz.

A number of businesses operating in the Alimas Ufa Carnival area expressed relief at the decision to extend the deadline.