He later worked in a number of jobs: headmaster of Majeediyya School, owner of Radio Maldives, and manager of Bandos Resort.

[3] Prior to 1970, Zahir returned to the government service as Deputy Minister in the Ministry of Education, then in Home Affairs.

In 1988, Social Services was moved out of the ministry's purview, and Zahir was appointed Minister of Home Affairs and Sports.

Dubbed "the island of hope" by foreign press, Hulhumalé would provide more housing for residents of Malé, one of the most densely-populated cities in the world.

[6] To better protect Malé from ocean hazards, Zahir's ministry built a seawall (1995–1997) with Japanese foreign aid.

[11] An office building in Hulhumalé was dedicated to him by the president who noted that he had performed an invaluable service to the Maldivian people as a state dignitary.