The Maldives’ first professionally trained meteorological observer, Ali Shareef, has officially retired after dedicating 47 years to the nation’s weather monitoring and forecasting efforts. His departure marks the end of an era for the Maldives Meteorological Service, where his career began in the late 1970s and grew alongside the institution itself.
According to the Maldives Meteorological Service, Ali Shareef joined the organization in 1978 as a Meteorological Observer, at a time when structured weather forecasting was still in its early stages in the country. Fresh from training, he quickly became involved in issuing forecasts and alerts, particularly related to wind patterns and sea conditions that are vital for an island nation.
Over the years, his work supported fishermen, mariners, aviation services, and disaster preparedness efforts across the Maldives. For many, his forecasts were not just data points but essential guidance for daily safety and planning.
The MET Office noted that Ali Shareef’s tenure coincided with major institutional growth. During this period, the Maldives Meteorological Service built strong working relationships with regional and international meteorological agencies. These collaborations helped modernize forecasting systems, improve early warning capabilities, and raise the Maldives’ profile within the global meteorological community.
His role was not confined to national duties alone. Ali Shareef represented the Maldives at the Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System for Africa and Asia, contributing to broader discussions on climate risks, disaster preparedness, and regional cooperation.
At the time of his retirement, Ali Shareef was serving as the Deputy Director General of the Maldives Meteorological Service. In this senior role, he helped guide policy, mentor younger officers, and support the continued development of meteorological services in the country.
The MET Office publicly expressed its appreciation for his decades of dedication, describing his contributions as instrumental to the service’s progress and resilience.
In recognition of his long and committed service to the state, the government awarded Ali Shareef the National Award in July 2024. The honor highlighted not only his professional achievements but also his lasting impact on national safety and public service
