The government has expanded the pool of islands available for development under its Halal tourism initiative, adding Fushifaru in Shaviyani Atoll to the list of properties open for public bidding.
The inclusion was formalised through an amendment to the programme framework issued by the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, allowing investors to lease and develop islands and lagoons tailored to Halal tourism standards. The move broadens the scope of a model that is being positioned as a niche offering within the Maldives’ resort sector.
Fushifaru, a 4.34-hectare island with a planned capacity of 100 beds, joins a group of sites already identified under the initiative. These include Makunudhoo in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, a significantly larger 200-hectare area designated for a 150-bed project, as well as Fonagaadhoo in Laamu Atoll and Dhonhera in Seenu Atoll, each allocated for 100-bed developments on sites measuring 8.18 and 8.38 hectares respectively.
Under the framework, properties are offered on 50-year lease terms, with investors required to begin construction within 36 months of signing. The policy also permits land reclamation as part of development plans, providing flexibility for project design and scale.
A set of financial incentives has been outlined to support investment. Acquisition fees may be paid in instalments over five to six years, while a 20 percent duty waiver is available. In addition, land rent during the construction grace period will be waived for projects that are completed ahead of schedule.
The addition of Fushifaru has led to adjustments in the procurement timeline, including a supplementary pre-bid meeting for interested parties. Proposals under the Halal tourism initiative are due by 11:00 a.m. on 11 May.
Separately, the ministry has extended the submission deadline for 13 other commercial resort development sites to 1:00 p.m. on 13 May, indicating continued activity in the broader pipeline of tourism investments.
The expansion signals a continued effort to diversify the Maldives’ tourism offering, while maintaining a structured approach to lease terms, incentives, and development timelines.
