The 2023 Indian Ocean Island Games set to be held in Maldives has been through into doubt following Minister Mahloof stating that the fate of the games will be decided by the Presidential cabinet. Following the Corona virus pandemic and the global  financial downfall, Maldives has take a severe hit with fall in tourism. 

Youth and Sports minister Mahloof said that there are many obstacles for the game to be held. "The plan is for the games to be postponed if it cannot be held in 2023 to 2025". Said Mahloof. However if the games cannot be delayed till 2025 minister Mahloof plans to leave the chance to hold the 2023 games and want Maldives the host the game that follows. 

The biggest obstacle to the 2023 games is the lack of sports venues and facilities. Many sports development projects have been put on hold due to the Corona virus pandemic. Minister Mahloof stated that a new indoor Volleyball arena will begin groundbreaking next year while the swimming track and Ekuveni track are being developed to meet international standards.