The Maldives' first shark research centre has opened in Fuvahmulah City, yesterday.

The Shark Research and Conservation Hub was inaugurated by Fuvahmulah Mayor Ismail Rafeeq.

In a social media post, the Fuvahmulah City Council said the centre, established by the private organization The Miyaru Program, will conduct shark research, promote education and support innovation in shark conservation.

Founded in January 2023, The Miyaru Program works to advance shark research and conservation in the Maldives in collaboration with local and international experts.

The council and local dive centres have been working to establish Fuvahmulah as one of the world's leading shark diving destinations.

In December 2024, the city won the Best Shark Diving Destination award at Asia's largest diving expo.

The waters surrounding Fuvahmulah are home to several rare species of sharks and fish, attracting large numbers of tourists each month for diving experiences.