When the COVID-19 pandemic forced the world into isolation, a spark of creativity ignited in a group of sports-loving Maldivian youth. Inspired by international platforms like Bleacher Report and 433, they saw an untapped opportunity to celebrate local athletes and tournaments in the Maldives. This passion gave birth to Sidibaree, a platform that has revolutionized the way sports are represented and celebrated in the country.
From Humble Beginnings to National Fame
Sidibaree’s journey started modestly, with founders using Google images as references to create hand-drawn artwork. Gradually, their vision expanded, and today, Sidibaree is synonymous with Maldivian sports culture. Their vibrant photos and videos flood social media during any sports event, earning them a cherished spot among fans and athletes alike.
Abdullah Raihan, co-founder of Sidibaree, reflects on the inspiration behind their initiative:
“In the Maldives, when a tournament or match is played, it’s just reported in news articles. We wanted to go beyond that — to create visuals and stories that reflect the energy of modern sports culture.”
And they did just that. From stunning match-day posters to dynamic photo series, Sidibaree has elevated the visibility of Maldivian sports like never before.
Why the Name “Sidibaree”?
The name Sidibaree translates to staircase in Dhivehi. It’s an homage to the die-hard sports fans who claim the staircase as their vantage point for every match. These fans, the heart and soul of any game, symbolize the passion and loyalty Sidibaree embodies.
Aiming for Global Recognition
Sidibaree dreams big. Many of their posts are curated in English, aiming to bridge Maldivian sports with the global community. The ultimate goal? To open doors for Maldivian athletes on the international stage.
“We want to tell the world about Maldivian sports,” says Raihan. “We believe this platform could become a gateway for our athletes to gain recognition and opportunities abroad.”
A Team Fueled by Passion
Sidibaree’s success lies in its talented and diverse team. Photographers, graphic designers, and writers each bring their unique flair, yet work seamlessly together. From personal cameras in their early days to professional-grade setups, the team’s shared enthusiasm has propelled their growth.
Managing Director Ahmed Affan highlights how athletes have embraced their work:
“The love we receive from athletes is overwhelming. Our posts have made them recognizable, even outside the Maldives.”
Capturing the Heart of Sports
Sidibaree has a unique approach to sports storytelling. They don’t just document matches — they capture moments that resonate. Whether it’s a game-changing move on the field or a candid shot of fans in the stands, their visuals tell a story.
One of their standout achievements was a photo of Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri during the SAFF Championship, which gained fame across the region.
Inspiring Through Wins and Losses
Sidibaree is more than a platform for victory celebrations. The team firmly believes in highlighting Maldivian athletes regardless of the outcome. “We want to encourage our players, win or lose,” Raihan asserts.
What’s Next for Sidibaree?
The future looks bright for this passionate group. With dreams of taking Maldivian athletes to global arenas and working on larger international projects, Sidibaree is set to keep inspiring, one photo at a time.
For Maldivian sports, Sidibaree isn’t just a staircase — it’s a bridge to the world.