During Gayoom's presidency, his foreign policy towards South and East Asia was centered on strengthening ties with key regional players, particularly India, China, and Japan.

Gayoom maintained a close relationship with India, which was pivotal during the 1988 coup attempt when India responded with "Operation Cactus" to retain his government. Gayoom sought to balance the Maldives' foreign policy by establishing ties with China, especially as China's influence in the Indian Ocean grew through infrastructure investments and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Relationships demonstrated Gayoom's pragmatic approach to foreign policy, ensuring the Maldives benefitted from both regional powers without becoming overly dependent on one. China's growing presence was evident in infrastructure projects such as airports and bridges, but the administration was careful to avoid granting military footholds to Beijing, which would have alarmed India.

In October 1984, Gayoom made the first visit to China by a Maldivian head of state since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1972. The visit was made at the invitation of Chinese president. Upon touching down, Gayoom was greeted by Chinese president Li Xiannian. During the trip, an agreement on economic and technical cooperation was signed between the governments of China and the Maldives.

Gayoom's tenure as president saw the Maldives strengthening ties with African nations, particularly through multilateral organisations such as the Commonwealth of Nations and the United Nations, where he sought cooperation on shared challenges, such as climate change and development initiatives. He established relations with more than 25 countries in the African continent, during his presidential administration. He strongly advocated for the complete and rapid eradication of apartheid and supported the South African people's right to self-determination. His vocal opposition to apartheid strengthened the Maldives' standing in international forums, where he consistently called for the end of racial oppression and supported liberation movements in Africa.

In the Middle East, Gayoom prioritised relations with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states. Saudi Arabia was a crucial ally, providing financial aid, religious scholarships, and investments that supported the Maldives's development. Diplomatic exchanges between the two nations were frequent, and the relationship was anchored in Islamic solidarity. Gayoom's government also sought to deepen ties with other Gulf countries like Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates. These partnerships focused on economic cooperation, with the Gulf states contributing to various infrastructure projects in the Maldives. In 1981, Gayoom established diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and the Maldives in history.

In the realm of security, the Maldives sought to strengthen ties with the United States to enhance its own national security and regional stability. Given its strategic location in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives was seen as an important partner in U.S. efforts to combat piracy and terrorism in the region. Gayoom's government actively cooperated with the U.S. on maritime security initiatives and participated in international discussions concerning security challenges. This cooperation was mutually beneficial, as it provided the Maldives with increased visibility on the global stage while aligning with U.S. interests in ensuring a secure maritime environment.

During the presidency of Gayoom, relations between the Maldives and the United States were marked by cooperation and economic support. The U.S. contributed to the Maldives's economic development mainly through international organisation programmes. Following the December 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the two countries signed a bilateral assistance agreement, providing $8.6 million for reconstruction efforts. This aid was directed towards rebuilding harbours, sewage systems, and electrical generation facilities, while also helping the Ministry of Finance improve its capacity to manage and absorb international assistance.

During his presidency, the Maldives established and nurtured strong relations with various European countries, particularly in the areas of trade, tourism, and development cooperation. The Maldives became an attractive destination for European tourists, which boosted its economy and helped the nation diversify its income sources. European nations, particularly the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy, played a crucial role in promoting Maldivian tourism, contributing to the growth of the hospitality industry and infrastructure development.

Gayoom made a number of visits to more than 35 countries during his 30 years of presidency. His first visit following first inauguration, was to Libya to attend 1 September revolution celebrations in the country. He became the first Maldivian president to visit Libya, Senegal and South Africa. At the end of his presidency, Gayoom had visited India over sixteen times in various capacities, making him the Maldivian president with the most visits to India.

Education and healthcare policies were one of the most important–focused subjects during the presidential administration of Gayoom.

When Gayoom became president in 1978, the Maldives lacked a formal education system beyond the capital Malé, although two secondary schools and basic educational infrastructure existed there. In early 1979, his government conducted a study that revealed 24.77% of the population was illiterate. In response, the government launched the "Basic Education Project" in January 1980, aimed at eradicating illiteracy. The project began the following month, with the start of teaching basic education classes. Over time, the initiative reduced the illiteracy rate, bringing it down to 1.06% by 1999. Gayoom made education a key priority, aiming to expand access across the country. His government began by establishing primary schools in the atolls, with Gayoom personally inaugurating the first in South Miladhunmadulu Atoll in March 1979, months after assuming office.

A national curriculum was introduced, and efforts were made to provide seven years of primary education to Maldivian children. Additionally, two secondary schools were established in the atolls, reducing the need for students to move to Malé for higher education. The number of students sitting for the General Certificate of Education (GCE) ordinary Level examinations grew from 102 in 1978 to 6,495 in 2002. Total student enrolment increased from around 15,000 in 1978 to 97,323 in 1998, and the literacy rate improved from 70% to 98.82% by the same year. By 1999, 254 schools with 2,646 teachers were providing education up to Grade 10.

Gayoom's administration introduced many healthcare reforms in the late 1970s, when the Maldives had limited medical facilities, including just one small hospital and basic health services. His government prioritised improving maternal and child health, contributing to an increase in life expectancy from 48 years in 1978 to 71 years by 1998. Universal immunisation was achieved by 1990, and the government implemented measures to combat communicable diseases. Gayoom's administration also launched public health campaigns promoting healthy living, balanced diets, and the risks of tobacco consumption.

By 1998, the physician to population ratio had improved from one per 20,700 people in 1978 to one per 1,300, and hospital bed capacity increased nearly tenfold.

Gayoom's presidency was marked by controversy, particularly regarding human rights issues. International human rights organisations and foreign governments have accused his administration of employing tactics against dissidents, including arbitrary arrest and detention, torture, forced confessions, and politically motivated killings. Reports indicated that security forces were sometimes used to intimidate opposition figures.

Criticism of Gayoom's governance came from various quarters, including foreign nations such as those within the European Union and the Commonwealth of Nations, which expressed concerns over his long-term rule and described it as autocratic. Critics highlighted issues related to the abuse of power, and some characterised his leadership style as dictatorial, pointing to limitations on political freedoms. The complex nature of his legacy continues to be a topic of discussion, with supporters citing developmental achievements while critics emphasise human rights violations.

Towards the end of his presidency, Gayoom apologised for his actions, saying:

If any Maldivian citizen has had to endure undeserved hardship or distress due to a policy I implemented, a decision I made, or due to my failure to give proper attention where it was needed, I sincerely regret it. And if any citizen has experienced such a situation, I humbly ask for generous forgiveness from that citizen.

During the Gayoom's administration, tourism became the largest industry in the Maldives, a status it continues to hold. By the 1980s, tourism accounted for 28% of the nation's GDP and more than 60% of its foreign exchange receipts. This sector played a critical role in driving economic growth, with GDP per capita expanding by 265% during the 1980s and a further 115% in the 1990s. The tourism industry's rapid development underpinned the Maldives' economic success, and this expansion provided a steady source of income and foreign currency, which helped to stabilise the economy during Gayoom's rule.

Under Gayoom's leadership, the tourism industry was restructured in 1979 with the introduction of the Tourism Act, which established regulations to manage entry into the sector through capacity control. These measures improved standards in existing resorts and increased profitability. By the end of the 20th century, tourism became a vital part of the Maldivian economy, contributing to GDP and providing a crucial source of foreign currency.

Gayoom's government initiated economic reforms in 1989, aimed at liberalising the economy. These reforms included lifting import quotas and opening certain sectors for export to private enterprises. The liberalisation also extended to foreign investment regulations, encouraging more international involvement in the Maldivian economy. The nation's GDP grew rapidly, with the gross domestic product rising from MVR 440 million in 1980 to MVR 10,458 million by 2005, according to International Monetary Fund estimates.

Throughout the 1980s, the Maldivian economy experienced relatively low inflation, with real GDP growth averaging around 10%. The year 1990 saw an exceptional GDP growth rate of 16.2%, although this figure declined to 4% by 1993. Due to slowdown, the economy continued to perform strongly, with an average real GDP growth of over 7.5% per year from 1995 to 2004. The sustained growth during this period was largely driven by a combination of tourism, fishing, and increased foreign investment, which helped the country weather regional economic challenges.

The Indian Ocean tsunami of 2004, however, caused a sharp contraction in the economy, with the GDP loss of approximately 62%; the Maldivian economy demonstrated resilience, rebounding strongly with a 13% growth rate in 2006. The recovery was driven by a revival in tourism and infrastructure development efforts, supported by international aid and investments. Under Gayoom's administration, the Maldives managed to maintain steady economic growth, regardless of external shocks, while fostering a more open and diversified economy.

During his presidency, Gayoom was a strong advocate for environmental protection and climate diplomacy, both nationally and internationally. His administration became one of the first to bring international attention to the potential consequences of climate change for low-lying nations. In 1987, following severe flooding that inundated much of the capital, Malé, Gayoom recognised the looming threat posed by rising sea levels and environmental degradation. He became the first–ever world leader to address the United Nations General Assembly on the dangers of climate change, urging urgent global action on what was, at the time, still a relatively unknown issue.

Gayoom's landmark "Death of a Nation" speech at the UNGA is often credited as one of the earliest and most influential calls for global cooperation in combating climate change. His warnings about the vulnerability of small island nations like the Maldives highlighted the risks posed by global warming and sea level rise, issues that were not widely recognised at the time. This intervention marked the beginning of the Maldives' active participation in global climate diplomacy, reinforcing the nation's commitment to advocating for the protection of environmentally fragile states on the international stage.

In addition to his efforts within the Maldives, Gayoom also spearheaded regional environmental cooperation. Under his leadership, the Maldives played an important role in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Study on causes and consequences of natural disasters and the Protection and Preservation of the Environment. It helped build regional awareness of environmental risks, particularly in relation to natural disasters and the long-term impacts of environmental degradation. Gayoom's focus on regional cooperation helped to enhance the Maldives' preparedness for climate-related challenges. In 1989, the Maldives hosted the first Small States Conference on Sea Level Rise, signing the "Malé Declaration on Global Warming and Sea Level Rise", a treaty urging nations to recognise sea level rise as a global security threat and take urgent action to mitigate its impacts. In 2007, representatives of Small Island Developing States signed the "Malé Declaration on the Human Dimension of Global Climate Change", a treaty signed by representatives of Small Island Developing States to highlight the critical links between climate change and human rights.

Furthermore, Gayoom's government initiated the SAARC Study on the Greenhouse effect and its impact on the region. In 1989, Gayoom initiated the Commonwealth Study on Climate Change, which focused on the effects of global warming on Commonwealth nations, particularly small island states. The study, reviewed in 1991, highlighted the pressing need for international cooperation in addressing the challenges posed by rising sea levels and other environmental threats. Gayoom's proactive approach in commissioning and participating of climate-change and environmental topics helped establish the Maldives as a global leader in climate diplomacy and advocacy for small island states.

A month after Gayoom assumed presidency, the Citizen's Majlis passed the bill to amend the constitution. By 1980, Gayoom declared to form a special constitutional assembly, consisting of cabinet members and parliamentarians, to amend the constitution. After an 18-year process, the amended constitution was finalised, and by November 1997, Gayoom ratified the constitution. In 1998, the new constitution came info effect—declaring the Maldives a democratic republic (though it did not fully follow democratic principles). In June 2004, Gayoom launched the "democratic reform agenda" in response to growing calls for political liberalisation and greater civil liberties. Over the following years, notable progress was made — a National Human Rights Commission adhering to international standards was established, political parties were introduced for the first time in 2005, media freedom was granted, and the criminal justice system was modernised.

In 2007, after several rounds of negotiations with opposition parties, particularly the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), an agreement was reached. The MDP pledged not to engage in violence, while the government committed to releasing political detainees and accelerating the reform process. Concerns over the pace of reforms remained, with some doubting the government's full commitment to change.

By 2008, Gayoom emphasised the progress achieved through his reform agenda. The drafting of a new constitution was nearing completion, aimed at facilitating the transition to a fully liberal democracy. The new constitution introduced a clearer separation of powers, stronger human rights protections, and established independent institutions, including an autonomous Elections Commission and a Supreme Court.

This constitution, finalised later 2008, marked a turning point in Maldivian political history. It introduced a multi-party system, limited the presidency to two five-year terms, and created the framework for greater transparency and accountability. Gayoom's administration also prepared for the country's first multi-party presidential election, proposing legislative reforms to guarantee the elections met international standards.

Following the inauguration of Mohamed Nasheed on 11 November 2008, Gayoom moved to his private residence in Malé. Gayoom made regular appearances at various events throughout the Malé city, until his imprisonment in 2018, and remained low public profile ever since.

In 2010, Gayoom established his non-profit organisation, "the Maumoon Foundation", to support initiatives aimed at improving the livelihoods of the Maldivian people, utilising his resources, contacts, and experience.

In January 2010, Gayoom announced he would be retiring from Maldivian politics. Gayoom returned to politics in 2011 after resigning from the Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party, which he had established. He cited corruption within the party's leadership as his primary reason for leaving, following disputes with the then party leader, Ahmed Thasmeen Ali. In early 2011, Gayoom formed a political faction within the DRP known as the Z-DRP, reflecting growing dissent over the party's direction. On 4 September 2011, Gayoom officially announced his resignation from the DRP, declaring that the Z-DRP would evolve into a new party that prioritised integrity and was independent of the DRP's influences. In September 2011, plans were revealed by Gayoom, for the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM). The PPM received formal approval from the Elections Commission in October 2011.

In 2016, a leadership dispute emerged between Abdulla Yameen and Gayoom, leading to rapid changes within the Progressive Party of Maldives. Tensions escalated when Gayoom faced challenges to his authority within the party. In 2017, PPM members voted to remove Gayoom as the party leader. Legal actions were initiated by two Members of Parliament, Ahmed Shiyam and Mohamed Shahid, who filed a case in the Civil Court to formally oust Gayoom from his leadership position.

In 2019, Gayoom announced his intention to establish a new political party, the Maldives Reform Movement. Following its establishment, he was appointed the interim president. Gayoom's son, Ahmed Faris Maumoon was later elected as the president and leader of the Maldives Reform Movement. During the 2021 MRM primaries, Gayoom ran for the party's leader position. He was elected by acclamation as the leader of the party.

After Gayoom lost the 2008 presidential election and the inauguration of Mohamed Nasheed, Gayoom did not react to Nasheed administration. In the 2013 presidential election, many Maldivian citizens gave the opinion for Gayoom to run in the elections, however he declared in February 2013 that he would not run any further presidential elections. Later then Progressive Party of Maldives held its primary elections and was won by Gayoom's half-brother Abdulla Yameen, in which he endorsed Yameen.

In the 2018 presidential elections, Gayoom endorsed Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, while Yameen was running; the decision was made following the imprisonment of Gayoom by Yameen in 2018.

During the 2023 presidential election, Gayoom's elder son Ahmed Faris Maumoon was running as an independent candidate after Elections Commission rejected his candidacy as a Maldives Reform Movement candidate due to lack of members in the party. Gayoom endorsed Faris and his running mate Abdul Sattar Yoosuf in the elections.

On 5 February 2018, Gayoom was arrested for planning to overthrow his half-brother Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom's government, along with his son-in-law, Mohamed Nadheem. His arrest occurred amid a emergency martial law declared by then-President Abdulla Yameen, who justified the actions by alleging a conspiracy and coup attempt. International and nationwide reactions came quickly; Maldivians started protesting the following day as the government declared state emergency.

Shortly before his arrest, Gayoom posted a video message on Twitter, stating, "I have not done anything to be arrested. I urge you to remain steadfast in your resolve too. We will not give up on the reform work we are doing". Media reported that Gayoom and his son Faris were being tortured by not being allowed medical treatment.

On 13 June 2018, Gayoom was sentenced to 19 months in prison for "obstructing justice" after refusing to cooperate with the Maldives police and the judiciary following his arrest. In September 2018, he was placed under house arrest due to health concerns. Gayoom was released on bail on 30 September 2018 and was acquitted on 18 October 2018.

International organisations, including the United Nations, expressed concern over the political situation, condemning the arrest as part of a broader "attack on democracy" in the Maldives. The UN urged the Maldivian government to respect judicial independence and fundamental freedoms, criticising the suppression of dissent and the crackdown on political opponents. Human rights groups also voiced their opposition to Gayoom's detention, calling for his immediate release and for the government to uphold democratic norms.

Domestically, Gayoom's arrest deepened the political divide in the country. Opposition leaders, including former President Mohamed Nasheed, condemned the arrest and called for international intervention. Nasheed appealed to India and the United States to step in, asserting that Yameen's actions threatened the rule of law and democratic governance in the Maldives. It is widely believed that the crisis resulted to Yameen's defeat in the 2018 presidential election.

Gayoom is regarded as one of the most influential figures in Maldivian history. At 86 years old, he is the oldest living former president and is the earliest-serving living former president since the death of Ibrahim Nasir in 2008. Gayoom's leadership has left an important mark on the country's political landscape.

Gayoom was seen as a moderniser and a stabilising force in the Maldives. His leadership brought remarkable advancements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, earning him substantial support among Maldivians. Many viewed him as a visionary leader who played a crucial role in bringing the Maldives into the modern era and fostering economic growth. His tenure is often credited with elevating the country’s global standing and improving the quality of life for its citizens. His presidency is also often referred to as "Golden 30 years".

However, Gayoom’s long rule also attracted considerable criticism, particularly regarding his administration’s handling of political dissent and human rights. Critics accused his government of authoritarian practices, including suppressing opposition voices and restricting freedoms of expression. Allegations contributed to a divided view of his leadership, with some seeing him as a benevolent ruler who maintained stability, while others viewed him as an autocratic leader resistant to democratic reforms.

Although facing accusations of authoritarianism, Gayoom hinted that he was not an authoritarian, stating:

I am not someone who wants to remain in power in the Maldives through force, nor am I someone who wants to hold any position through force. Therefore, I am here as someone who did not come to the position of president through force, and I am also not someone who wants to remain in this position using brute force. I am always ready to do things as the people wish. Even today, if the people say they want me to give up this position, I will give it up immediately. However, I will fight against anyone who tries to remove me from this position illegally, using weapons, or by force.

— Gayoom's address to the nation following coup attempt, 5 November 1988,

A 2024 poll by the organisation Maahdhaa4 ranks him as a top-performing president. In the years following his presidency, Gayoom's role in politics has continued to shape his public perception. He is often regarded as a senior statesman, maintaining remarkable influence in the political sphere. While his supporters continue to view him as the "father of the modern Maldives", Gayoom has been described by journalists, politicians, and organisations as a dictator, autocrat, an authoritarian, and a strongman. During his presidency, the opposition referred to him as "Golhaaboa" to criticise his leadership, while his supporters called him "Zaeem", meaning "leader".

Gayoom's health has been a concern in recent years, particularly during his time in jail. He had been diagnosed with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo. On 13 September 2018, his health deteriorated while he was incarcerated, leading to a visit to the doctor at Maafushi Jail for treatment. The attending physician recommended that Gayoom be placed under house arrest due to difficulties in performing essential activities. An ENT doctor advised him to avoid moving his head to prevent further complications due to Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo. Medical professionals indicated that his health could worsen at any moment, underscoring the seriousness of his condition during his imprisonment. In August 2020, Gayoom tested positive for COVID-19. He has remained in good health thereafter.

An avid reader, Gayoom is known for his deep engagement with literature, particularly in the areas of religion, science, and history during his post-presidency. His fascination with astronomy has been a notable aspect of his personal interests, and he has spent remarkable time studying the moon and celestial bodies. His passion for photography and calligraphy also stands out, with Gayoom being a skilled calligrapher known for his work in Arabic script. His calligraphic works has been displayed at the Islamic Centre since 1984. Furthermore, Gayoom is also a poet and writer.

Gayoom is an enthusiastic sportsman, with a particular interest in badminton and cricket. He actively played both sports during his presidency and beyond, maintaining a strong connection to physical activity. His role as an Islamic scholar further complements his diverse range of interests, as he often engages in discussions and lectures on religious matters during his free time.

In a 2020 interview with journalist Amir Saleem, Gayoom said that during his time teaching at Ahmadu Bello University in Nigeria, where he often found himself in an open area surrounded by trees, where he observed stars and the moon and became questioning about their movements. Noticing that "the moon appeared to rise in one direction and set in another", he resolved to understand the phenomenon. This led him to purchase a book on astronomy, resulting in his interest in astronomy.

Gayoom received several notable awards and honours throughout his career. In 1988, he was included in the Global 500 Roll of Honour by the United Nations Environment Programme. He was presented with the Man of the Sea Award for 1990 by the Lega Navale Italiana in 1991 and the International Environment Award by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit in 1998. Gayoom also received The Energy and Resources Institute's Sustainable Development Leadership Award in 2008.

In recognition of his contributions to international relations, Gayoom was awarded the Grand Order of Mugunghwa by South Korean president Chun Doo-hwan in 1984, and in 1997, Queen Elizabeth II conferred upon him the title of Knight Grand Cross of St Michael and St George. His efforts in public health were acknowledged with the WHO Health-for-All Gold Medal in 1998.

Other notable accolades include the Shield of Al-Azhar University in 2002, the Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana in 2008, and the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Ghazi, the highest state honour awarded by the Maldives, awarded to him in 2013. In 2015, Gayoom was awarded the Golden Jubilee Shield of Honour by the State for his exceptional national service in safeguarding, defending, and strengthening the full independence of the Maldives over the preceding 50 years. In 2022, Gayoom was awarded the President's Tourism Gold Award. He received lifetime achievement the same year.

• Mohamed Amin Didi
• Fathulla Jameel
• List of presidents of the Maldives
• Vice President of the Maldives
• Cabinet of the Maldives

• Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom at the president's office website
• Speeches by Maumoon Abdul Gayoom at the president's office website
• Maumoon Abdul Gayoom in libraries (WorldCat catalog)
• Maumoon Abdul Gayoom at BBC News website
• Maumoon Abdul Gayoom on Twitter
• Maumoon Abdul Gayoom on the Independent