The Ministry of Tourism and Environment has detailed the requirements and incentives for developing and operating tourist resorts in 13 lagoons located across the three northernmost atolls of the Maldives. The government has stated that expanding tourism in regions with fewer existing resorts remains a central priority, with particular attention on Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu and Shaviyani Atolls.
According to the Ministry, 13 lagoons will be dredged to facilitate resort construction in five designated areas within these atolls. All but one lagoon will be developed across 200 hectares, with each resort required to have a minimum capacity of 150 beds. The lagoons will be leased for a period of 50 years, and construction must begin within 35 months of land allocation.
The Ministry added that developers will receive several concessions, including duty relief of up to 15 percent on capital investment related to resort development.
Alongside these projects, the Ministry has renewed its call for contractors interested in developing resorts under the halal tourism model. Five resorts are being offered under this concept. Six islands were initially allocated across five atolls, and one has already been leased. These islands will also be leased for 50 years, with construction required to begin within 36 months from the date of the lease. Land dredging will be undertaken to support the development of these properties.
The government has also introduced incentives for halal tourism investments. Developers may receive concessions such as the ability to divide acquisition fees and development costs over five to six years if the island is leased through open bidding. Duty exemptions of up to 20 percent may also be granted, alongside other benefits.
The Ministry noted that these initiatives are intended to stimulate investment in underdeveloped regions while offering developers improved financial conditions for large scale tourism projects.
