On July 26, 2010, former president Mohamed Nasheed inaugurated the newly-renovated Maldives National Museum. Constructed by a Chinese company, this museum has become an icon of China-Maldives friendship.

Located in the Sultan Park, the original National Museum of the Maldives was opened on November 11, 1952, which was destroyed in 1968. Fortunately, the museum was re-designed & constructed by the Chinese government at the same place.

On Nov 12, 2007, construction work started right after the inauguration ceremony participated by former president Gayoom and former Chinese ambassador Ye Dabo. This 53,550 sqft complex was planned to be built by Shandong Qilu Construction Company in 18 months.

Chinese government attached great importance to the National Museum Project. On Nov 11, 2008, Chinese ambassador Ye Dabo visited construction site to inspect the progress. 

After re-opening, the National Museum serves as a bridge for for China-Maldives cultural exchanges. On Dec 22, 2015, an exhibition of the Chinese Maritime Silk Road was held at the museum. Relics from ancient China were displayed and illustrated long history of China-Maldives friendship.

On April 14, 2022, Chinese Ambassador Wang Lixin visited the National Museum, viewing relics with stories of China-Maldives friendship across millenniums. With commemorative activities of celebrating 50th anniversary of China-Maldives diplomatic ties are well under way, the cultural exchanges and cooperation will surely help bring the hearts of our people much closer.