The Maldives has taken another significant step in expanding its world-renowned tourism industry, opening new opportunities for resort development in two pristine lagoon areas, Kelaa in Haa Alif Atoll and Kaashidhoo in Kaafu Atoll. The Ministry of Tourism and Environment is inviting local and international investors to submit bids for the development and operation of three exclusive resort islands in these pristine northern and central atoll locations.
Aligned with national economic diversification goals, three resort plots have been earmarked: two in the tranquil lagoon of Kelaa spanning 325.5 hectares, and one in Kaashidhoo covering 115.21 hectares. These areas are expected to offer exclusive, luxury travel experiences while creating jobs and supporting local infrastructure. The two designated zones within Kelaa measure 156.2 hectares and 169.3 hectares respectively, and the Kaashidhoo site encompasses a sizeable 10-hectare lagoon area.
This decision follows a presidential directive issued by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on 29 March 2025, fulfilling a promise made during his February visit to Kelaa. During the visit, the President emphasized his administration’s commitment to increasing investment and economic activity in northern atolls, which have historically remained underutilized in terms of tourism development. His pledge included not only resort expansion but also the introduction of community-focused agricultural initiatives to boost local livelihoods.
To facilitate the investment process, the Ministry has scheduled two virtual information sessions for prospective bidders on 15 April and 6 May 2025 at 10:00 AM. Interested participants are required to confirm their attendance by emailing [email protected] no later than noon on 14 April and 5 May, respectively. Additionally, the bid information booklet will be available for purchase from 7 April 2025 to 3 June 2025, between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM, with application forms accessible through the Ministry’s official website.
These new resort developments are made possible by recent amendments to the Maldives Tourism Act, which now authorizes the President to designate islands, lagoons, and urban areas for tourism use. This change aims to address previous limitations imposed by decentralisation laws, which restricted local councils from allocating land for resort purposes. By resolving these legal barriers, the government seeks to unlock new areas for investment, especially in regions that have yet to fully benefit from the Maldives’ booming tourism sector.
By extending tourism to Kelaa and Kaashidhoo, the Government of Maldives aims to create new revenue streams, promote balanced national development, and encourage private sector participation in less-developed regions. These new resort projects offer a promising opportunity for investors to participate in the Maldives’ thriving tourism sector while contributing to sustainable and inclusive growth across the archipelago.
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