The Ministry of Tourism has opened bidding for the development of tourist resorts across 13 lagoon areas and three islands designated for halal tourism, marking a further expansion of the country’s resort pipeline as the government pursues new models of tourism development.
According to the Ministry, halal tourism will be permitted in the Makunudhoo lagoon area in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Fonagaadhoo in Laamu Atoll, and Dhonhera in Addu City. Halal tourism zones are intended to cater to Muslim travellers while remaining open to all guests, with operational standards designed around halal-compliant services.
Dhonhera has already been opened for bidding. The site was selected following a policy adjustment last year, after President Mohamed Muizzu announced plans in June to develop halal tourism in Hankede, Addu. Following public criticism, the Ministry of Tourism later confirmed in October that the project would be relocated to Dhonhera instead.
In addition to the halal tourism sites, the Ministry has opened bids for resort development in 13 lagoon areas across the northern atolls. These include three lagoons in Haa Alif Maadhuni, two in Kelaa, two in Makunudhoo, three in Maafaru, and three in Gonaa. The move adds to the government’s broader effort to diversify resort locations and expand tourism capacity beyond traditionally developed areas.
The deadline for submitting bids for the halal tourism islands is 09:00 on April 6, while bids for the lagoon resort developments will be accepted until 11:00 on the same day. Bidding documents are available from the Ministry of Tourism reception during working hours until April 5, or can be requested via email.
In his presidential address on Thursday, President Muizzu said the government is aiming to develop at least 10 new resorts over the next three years. He outlined a model under which every Maldivian would become a shareholder, with foreign currency earnings from these resorts deposited directly into the accounts of Maldivians. The President estimated that this would translate into an annual payout of around USD 400 per citizen.
The announcement comes as the government continues to frame resort development as a tool for broader economic participation, while navigating public debate around new tourism concepts such as halal-designated zones.
