Investors and tourism leaders gathered in New York were presented with a powerful message of confidence and opportunity as the Maldives, renowned for its world-class tourism offerings, outlined its bold development agenda and long-term vision to become a diversified and resilient economy by 2040.
Delivering the keynote at the Maldives Tourism and Investment Forum held in New York City, His Excellency Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan, former President and current Special Envoy of the President of the Maldives, highlighted the nation’s remarkable journey of transformation, from a geographically isolated island nation with limited natural resources into one of the most sought-after luxury travel destinations on the planet.
Speaking to an audience of global investors, tourism developers, and finance professionals, Dr Waheed framed the Maldives not just as a premier tourist paradise but also as a serious investment destination, with a maturing economy, stable governance, and a clearly defined national vision. He emphasised that the country’s resilience in the face of adversity—particularly during the global financial crisis in 2008 and the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrates an enduring national strength that goes beyond geography.
“Institutions once questioned our ability to withstand global economic shocks,” Dr Waheed said, referring to past assessments by international financial bodies. “Yet our recovery from the pandemic has outpaced expectations. That is not by chance. It is a testament to the determination and clarity of purpose that defines the Maldivian people and government.”
Central to his remarks was Vision 2040, the national development strategy introduced by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. The initiative aims to elevate the Maldives to the status of a developed nation by the time the country celebrates the 75th anniversary of its independence. Key components of Vision 2040 include the diversification of the economy, the development of new financial and urban infrastructures, and policies that strengthen fiscal sustainability and environmental resilience.
A major pillar of this agenda is the establishment of the Maldives International Financial Centre (MIFC), a globally oriented financial hub supported by modern regulatory systems designed to attract international investors. Dr Waheed noted that the development of MIFC aligns with broader efforts to modernise the financial sector and increase capital inflows, while ensuring transparency and investor protection.
In parallel, the government is implementing urban development initiatives to build sustainable cities equipped with climate-resilient infrastructure, along with measures to revitalize the fisheries sector through export-focused strategies that support local communities and food security.
The Special Envoy reaffirmed the Maldives’ robust economic outlook. The International Monetary Fund projects a 5% growth rate for the Maldivian economy in 2025, signaling steady recovery and potential for expansion. Ongoing fiscal reforms, he said, are being implemented to safeguard long-term stability and reinforce investor confidence through enhanced governance, regulatory clarity, and openness.
“The Maldives is not just a holiday destination, it’s an economy in transition,” he said. “Our ambition is to create a competitive, globally integrated marketplace that protects our sovereignty, strengthens national dignity, and invests in the next generation of Maldivians.”
He extended an open invitation to international investors to participate in this transformation, noting that the Maldives offers one of Asia’s most liberal and welcoming investment environments. With 99% of the country made up of ocean, and more than 1,000 coral islands scattered across 26 atolls, the Maldives combines unique natural beauty with strategic investment potential in sectors such as tourism, finance, real estate, fisheries, and sustainable development.
Dr Waheed concluded with a call to action: “If you are looking for a jurisdiction that moves with purpose, that is small but serious, that knows its value and invites you to grow with it, then we are ready to welcome you.”
With its proven track record of resilience, forward-thinking leadership, and an unwavering commitment to sustainable development, the Maldives stands as a compelling destination not only for travellers seeking serenity but also for visionary investors seeking high-impact opportunities in the Indian Ocean region.
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