The Ministry of Tourism and Environment (MoTE) has announced an Invitation for Bids (IFB) for the lease, development, operation, and management of new tourist resorts in Kaashidhoo Lagoon, Kaafu Atoll, and Farumuli, Noonu Atoll, reinforcing the Maldives’ continued commitment to expanding its high-quality tourism portfolio and diversifying investment opportunities across the country. Both locations have been designated as priority areas for tourism development, reflecting their strong potential to support sustainable resort projects that align with national development objectives and the Maldives’ reputation as a world-class island destination.
Kaashidhoo Lagoon offers a large and diverse development setting, with a total area of 115.21 hectares, of which 10 hectares will be reclaimed specifically for the proposed resort project. The ministry has stipulated that the resort developed in this location must feature a minimum of 100 beds, enabling investors to design a property that balances exclusivity with operational viability. The lagoon environment provides opportunities for integrated resort concepts that combine accommodation, marine recreation, wellness, dining, and experiential tourism, while maintaining environmental sensitivity and adherence to national regulations. The scale of the lagoon also allows for thoughtful master planning, supporting a resort layout that can incorporate extensive water and beach villas, leisure facilities, and supporting infrastructure.
In parallel, the ministry has issued an IFB for resort development in Farumuli, an island comprising 0.41 hectares of land and a surrounding lagoon of 71.18 hectares. For this project, land reclamation of up to a maximum of 15 hectares has been approved, and the development is required to include a minimum of 150 beds. Farumuli presents strong potential for a resort concept that emphasizes spacious design, immersive marine experiences, and high-end hospitality offerings. The substantial lagoon area provides scope for extensive overwater accommodation, water sports, diving facilities, and curated guest experiences, enhancing the destination’s appeal to international markets seeking distinctive island resorts.
MoTE has confirmed that both islands will be leased for a period of 50 years, offering long-term security and stability for investors. A construction period of 36 months will be granted from the date of signing the lease agreement, allowing developers sufficient time to complete planning, design, and construction in line with required standards. This framework supports well-structured project implementation while ensuring timely delivery of new tourism assets to the market.
To facilitate transparency and engagement, virtual pre-bid meetings for interested parties will be held on 16 February and 3 March at 1000 hours local time. Prospective bidders are required to register by emailing [email protected] by 1200 hours on the day prior to the meeting. Bidding documents can be purchased from the MoTE building in Malé from 1 February to 31 March between 0900 and 1300 hours, or by requesting them via the same email address. The IFB application form is also available through [email protected] and on the ministry’s official website.
The deadline for bid submission is 1000 hours on Wednesday, 1 April, with proposals to be submitted in person to the Ministry of Tourism and Environment. Interested parties may submit written enquiries via email until 29 March 2026. The initiative is expected to attract strong interest from local and international developers and further strengthen the Maldives’ position as a premier global tourism destination offering diverse, high-quality resort experiences.
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