MMA Research Fund: The Monetary Authority of Maldives has opened applications for its MVR 5 million MMA Research Fund, backing policy-focused studies on areas like digitalization/fintech, tourism, housing, health spending and more, with deadlines set for 13 Oct 2026. Unicode & Currency Tech: The UAE dirham symbol is now included in Unicode 18.0, and the Maldives’ rufiyaa is also listed—meaning easier support for keyboards, apps and operating systems. Tourism Tech & Trade: Hotelier Maldives GM Forum 2026 (5 Oct) is set to spotlight “Resilience and Reinvention: Talent, Technology & Transformation,” with Bank of Maldives as banking partner. Digital Safety for Seniors: Ooredoo Maldives ran scam-awareness and digital literacy sessions for seniors in Malé and Hulhumalé, partnering with Maldives Police Service. Mega Waterfront Deal: Eagle Hills and the Government of Maldives signed commercial terms for a Maldives Waterfront and Marina project in Ras Malé, targeting up to US$12bn (and later reporting up to US$20bn) with hotels, residences and a marina. Health & Skills: First Lady Sajidha Mohamed urged more training for neonatal care professionals, stressing that technology needs skilled hands to work. Environment Watch: ERA says oil tanker grounding near Malé caused “very little impact” to the reef, with only minor surface scrapes reported. iPhone 18 Pre-orders: Local retailers have started iPhone 18 series pre-orders in the Maldives, with deposits and premium pricing widely advertised.