President visits Shangri-La ahead of resort’s reopening in Addu

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu visited Shangri-La Villingili Resort on Wednesday to view the final preparations for its reopening, expected before the end of this year. 

The visit took place en route from Gan to Hithadhoo, following the inauguration of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Air Corps’ first air station.

Accompanied by senior officials from the Tourism Ministry and several Members of Parliament representing Addu, the President was briefed by Shangri-La’s management on renovation works underway at the resort. These include upgrades to water villas, restaurants, and decking areas.

Shangri-La Villingili, the first resort established in Addu City, originally opened 16 years ago. It has remained closed since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and has undergone extensive renovations in preparation for its reopening.

President Dr @MMuizzu tours Shangri-La in Addu, assessing prospects for revitalising tourism and enhancing economic activity in the atoll. #RayyithunGaathah #AdduAtollVisit pic.twitter.com/bdvyke61KM

— The President's Office (@presidencymv) November 5, 2025

Tourism Minister Thoriq Ibrahim previously announced that the resort would reopen on 31 December 2025. Shangri-La has also confirmed that it will officially begin welcoming guests before the year’s end.

The President’s visit underscores the government’s support for tourism development in Addu and its broader efforts to revitalize key economic sectors across the southern atolls.