The Government of Maldives has unveiled a new set of investment opportunities aimed at expanding halal tourism in the island nation, with designated plots now available across six atolls. The initiative is backed by a series of financial incentives and policy concessions designed to attract both local and foreign investors seeking to develop Muslim-friendly resorts in the Maldives’ emerging halal tourism sector.
According to the Ministry of Tourism, the project aligns with the government’s broader strategy to promote equitable regional development by encouraging resort investments in underdeveloped regions. The selected islands and lagoons, spanning Haa Alif, Haa Dhaalu, Shaviyani, Thaa, Laamu, and Addu atolls, are earmarked for halal tourism development and will feature services and infrastructure catering specifically to Muslim travellers.
What is Halal Tourism?
Halal tourism refers to travel services that comply with Islamic principles, such as the availability of halal food, prayer facilities, alcohol-free environments, and privacy options for families. The government has stated that these principles will be integrated into both the development and operational phases of each resort, ensuring a consistent experience tailored to the needs of Muslim guests.
Investor Concessions to Boost Halal Tourism Sector
The Ministry of Tourism has confirmed that, under the directive of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, a series of enhanced investment concessions have been approved to incentivize the development of halal tourism resorts. These measures are designed to improve investment feasibility and reduce initial financial burdens on developers. The concessions include:
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A 20% reduction in lease acquisition costs, making project entry more financially viable for investors.
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An option to pay lease acquisition costs in instalments, specifically during the first quarter of the fifth and sixth years of the development phase, allowing greater flexibility in financial planning.
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Deferral of land rent payments for the remainder of the grace period, provided that the resort becomes operational before the expiration of the allotted grace period.
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Duty exemptions of up to 20% on capital inputs, aimed at reducing the cost of essential construction and development materials.
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Extension of duty-free privileges to include furniture, kitchen appliances, and electronic equipment, further easing the procurement of key operational assets.
The Ministry emphasized that these benefits are part of a long-term plan to position the Maldives as a globally competitive, Muslim-friendly destination. This move comes on the heels of President Muizzu’s visit to Malaysia in April, during which he highlighted the country’s interest in halal tourism collaboration.
Land Availability for Resort Development
The Ministry of Tourism is now inviting eligible investors to bid for the lease, development, operation, and management of the following plots. A total of 14 resort development opportunities are being offered, including expansive lagoons and small islands ideal for boutique-style halal retreats.
| # | Atoll | Island/Plot Name | Estimated Size (Ha) | GPS Coordinates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Haa Alif | Maadhuni Faru (Lagoon 1) | 200 | 72°57’23.73″E, 6°50’45.51″N |
| 2 | Haa Alif | Maadhuni Faru (Lagoon 2) | 200 | 72°57’10.16″E, 6°49’53.64″N |
| 3 | Haa Alif | Maadhuni Faru (Lagoon 3) | 200 | 72°57’25.67″E, 6°49’20.07″N |
| 4 | Haa Dhaalu | Makunudhoo Faru (Lagoon 1) | 200 | 72°33’39.68″E, 6°14’27.68″N |
| 5 | Haa Dhaalu | Makunudhoo Faru (Lagoon 2) | 200 | 72°35’8.96″E, 6°18’9.54″N |
| 6 | Haa Dhaalu | Maafaru (Lagoon 1) | 200 | 72°54’27.47″E, 6°43’27.30″N |
| 7 | Haa Dhaalu | Maafaru (Lagoon 2) | 200 | 72°54’18.02″E, 6°42’43.69″N |
| 8 | Haa Dhaalu | Maafaru (Lagoon 3) | 200 | 72°54’52.98″E, 6°41’59.11″N |
| 9 | Shaviyani | Gonaa Faru (Lagoon 1) | 200 | 72°52’24.50″E, 6°28’57.52″N |
| 10 | Shaviyani | Gonaa Faru (Lagoon 2) | 200 | 72°52’28.62″E, 6°27’32.46″N |
| 11 | Shaviyani | Gonaa Faru (Lagoon 3) | 200 | 72°52’46.28″E, 6°26’17.83″N |
| 12 | Thaa | Kurandhuvaru | 2.53 | 73°10’33.770″E, 2°32’21.456″N |
| 13 | Thaa | Kandufushi | 2.22 | 72°59’15.069″E, 2°31’52.417″N |
| 14 | Laamu | Gasgan’dufinolhu | 3.99 | 73°32’24.458″E, 1°57’8.556″N |
Bidding and Information Sessions
Interested investors—both local and international—are invited to participate in this initiative. Information sessions will be held virtually at the following times:
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Thursday, 17 July 2025 at 10:00 hrs (local time)
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Tuesday, 05 August 2025 at 10:00 hrs (local time)
To join these sessions, interested parties must email their name, email address, and contact number to [email protected] before 12:00 hrs on 16 July 2025 and 04 August 2025 respectively.
Bid Submission and Documentation
The Bid Document will be available for purchase from 01 July 2025 to 01 September 2025 between 09:00 hrs to 13:00 hrs (excluding government holidays) at the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, Velaanage, 5th Floor. The bid submission deadline is:
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3rd September 2025, Wednesday at 10:00 hrs (local time)
Applicants may visit the Ministry’s website for application forms and full details. Clarification queries regarding the bid can be submitted via email to [email protected] before 13:00 hrs on 01 September 2025.
An Emerging Market Opportunity
With a growing global Muslim population and rising demand for faith-compliant travel experiences, halal tourism presents a lucrative and sustainable market. The Maldives, renowned for its pristine islands and luxury hospitality, is well-positioned to lead this niche. These initiatives not only aim to diversify the nation’s tourism offerings but also contribute to job creation and local economic empowerment across less-developed atolls.
Investors seeking to be part of this transformative tourism model can now benefit from early-stage incentives while tapping into a fast-expanding segment of the global travel industry.
For official announcement and details, visit: Gazette Announcement – Halal Tourism Project
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