SME Digital rolls out guesthouse financing of up to MVR 10 million

SME Digital on Wednesday announced the launch of two new Shariah-compliant financing solutions, Guesthouse and Guestroom Financing, aimed at expanding access to affordable financing for entrepreneurs, businesses, and first-time entrants in the local tourism sector.

According to SME Digital, the newly introduced facilities are designed to support the establishment, expansion, and modernization of tourism-related ventures by addressing common financial challenges faced during construction, renovation, and operational growth.

Through flexible financing structures and extended repayment periods, the solutions provide individuals and businesses with the financial capacity required to invest confidently in long-term tourism projects while supporting sustainable sector growth, says the company.

Guesthouse Financing

Guesthouse Financing provides financial support for the development of new guesthouses and the expansion of existing properties with a minimum of six guestrooms, including the addition of new rooms and facilities, the establishment of tourism support services, and the adoption of modern technologies that enhance operational efficiency.

For the first time, SME Digital has increased the financing limit under this facility to up to MVR 10 million, with a repayment tenure of up to 15 years, including a grace period of up to 18 months, providing businesses with greater flexibility during the initial stages of operation.

Applicants are required to contribute a minimum equity investment of 20 percent toward the total project cost.

Guestroom Financing

Guestroom Financing creates an accessible pathway for individuals and small-scale operators seeking to participate in the tourism sector through homestays and small accommodation ventures of up to maximum five guestrooms.

The facility provides financing of up to MVR 1.5 million, with a repayment tenure of up to 10 years, including a grace period of up to 12 months, enabling households and small businesses to expand room capacity or establish new homestay or rental services through manageable financing structures.

A minimum equity contribution of 20 percent of the total project cost is required, and eligibility for Guestroom Financing will be assessed based on the applicant’s repayment capacity, taking into consideration personal income sources such as salary, rental income, or business earnings.

Commenting on the launch, CEO of SME Digital, Badhurudheen Hassan, said the two new facilities are designed to support the continued growth of local tourism, while strengthening island economies across the Maldives.

“This financing will help expand tourist bed capacity across the atolls, enable entrepreneurs to establish tourism ventures, including projects developed on council-allocated lands, and create new income opportunities for communities. Ultimately, this initiative will contribute to increased island revenues, job creation, and the long-term economic well-being of our communities,” he added.

Applications for both facilities are now open via the SME Portal.