The Government has confirmed that Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort in Addu City will reopen by 31 December 2025, following more than five years of closure since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Shangri-La’s Villingili, first opened in 2009, has played a significant role in Addu City’s economy, employing more than 500 staff before its closure in March 2020. The resort has also been credited with strengthening connectivity in the south, particularly through Gan International Airport.
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, the Government has engaged in sustained discussions with Addu Investments Private Limited and relevant stakeholders to resolve the prolonged closure. These negotiations have resulted in a firm commitment from the operator to resume operations by the end of this year.
Officials said the reopening is expected to bring renewed economic and social benefits to Addu City, while also contributing to tourism diversification across the Maldives. The development forms part of the Government’s broader vision to expand tourism opportunities beyond the central region and promote growth in the outer atolls.
The Government expressed appreciation to Shangri-La’s management and Addu Investments Private Limited for their commitment to reopening what has been described as a landmark property in the country’s tourism industry.
