Bio
Abdulla Shahid has dedicated more than three decades to public service, building a distinguished career in diplomacy and politics. His election as President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (2021–2022) marked the culmination of decades of service, during which he championed multilateralism and a people-centred response to global challenges.
Shahid holds a Master’s degree in International Relations from The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Government from the University of Canberra.
Beginning his career in the Maldivian Foreign Service, Shahid went on to serve as Chief of Staff in the President’s Office for over a decade, demonstrating strong administrative and organisational leadership. He was appointed Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in 2005 before becoming Minister of Foreign Affairs in 2007, and again in 2018. Alongside his diplomatic service, he was elected to the People’s Majlis for five consecutive terms, serving as Speaker from 2009 to 2014. Throughout his career, he has played a leading role in shaping the Maldives’ foreign policy and strengthening its engagement with the international community.
A longstanding advocate of a rights-based approach to climate change, Shahid has also been recognised for advancing gender parity within the Maldivian Foreign Service, including among Heads of Mission.
In recognition of his distinguished service to the State and his leadership in advancing the Maldives’ standing on the international stage, he was awarded the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin in 2021. He has also received the highest national honours of the Dominican Republic, Guatemala and the Gabonese Republic.
