Dhiraagu- The Pioneering Master of Internet in the Maldives

As Dhiraagu celebrated International Internet Day yesterday, it is important to reflect back on the humble beginnings of this great and diversifying service, especially the pioneering company that opened the gateway to internet in the Maldives. The internet era for Maldivians came in 1996 when Dhiraagu introduced internet services to the country.

The early 2000s saw several, quick advancements in internet service, a testimony to Dhiraagu’s unwavering commitment to provide connectivity to Maldivians on different levels. 

1996-2007
1996- Internet Services were introduced
2000- Introduction of DhiMobile International Roaming Service
2002- Launching of ADSL Internet Service
2006- Establishment of a Fibre Optic submarine cable link between Sri Lanka and Maldives
2007- Implementation of domestic submarine cable across one-and-half degree channel, to further improve connectivity

Popular services like data, voice and high-speed internet began emerging in 2009. It was also during this time that Dhiraagu began exploring new horizons through upgrades to wireless mobile technology services.

2009-2015
2009- Roll out of 3G voice and data network
2011- Launching of the first phase of high-speed network rollout programme via deployment of submarine cable network throughout country
2012- Implementation of a nationwide submarine cable network
2013- Initiation of LTE trials by placing designated 4G Experience Kiosks in Male’
2014- Launching of 4G LTE Service
2015- Launching of DhiraaguTV service & Fibre Broadband service
      -Launching of LTE- Advanced Service in Male’ (becoming the first LTE-A (4G+) service in the South Asian region)
       -Completion of nationwide 3G mobile broadband rollout

The next few years saw multiple milestone developments for Dhiraagu on various fronts, including the launching of the first 5G service in South Asia.

2018-2022
Expanding their services to different islands and broadening their reach:
2018- Completion of nationwide 4G network expansion.
        - First 5G service demonstration in Maldives
-Provided connectivity to 200 schools as part of the ‘Digital School’ initiative
2019- Launching of commercial 5G for the first time in South Asia
        -Introduction of hotspot service to prime locations in Male’ City
2020- Establishment of the Maldives-Sri Lanka Cable (MSC) to strengthen the digital ecosystem of Maldives
2021- Completion of 85% coverage of Fibre Broadband Network
        -Awarded the ‘Fasted Mobile Network’ in the Maldives by Ookla
2022-Signed an agreement to connect Maldives to the global super high-way SEA-ME-WE 6 Submarine cable system which will provide direct access to key internet Exchange Points and Data Centers across South Asia & Europe.

As the company continues to enrich the Maldivian community through various internet services, it is crucial to acknowledge the vital role that Dhiraagu played in delivering the quality internet services we see today. 26 years back, Dhiraagu brought a revolutionary change to the nation, which has since then evolved to be a necessity that completely altered and reshaped the lives of all Maldivians.