Developers sought for 15 resorts in six atolls

Tourism Ministry has opened bids for the development of 15 new resorts across six atolls, as part of efforts to expand the Maldives’ tourism infrastructure.

According to four separate notices issued by the Ministry, the proposed development sites are located in Haa Alif (HA), Haa Dhaalu (HDh), Shaviyani (Sh), Noonu (N), and Laamu (L) atolls, as well as Addu City.

The projects in Haa Alif, Haa Dhaalu, and Shaviyani atolls include lagoon reclamation works within designated areas for resort development. Apart from this, several lagoons in Shaviyani and Noonu atolls have been allocated for tourism development.

The specific lagoons available for lease are:

• HA. Maadhunifaru 1, 2, and 3
• HDh. Makunudhoo Faru 2
• HDh. Maafaru Falhu 1, 2, and 3
• Sh. Gonaa Faru 1, 2, and 3

The lagoons offered under these opportunities span areas of up to 200 hectares. The deadline for submitting bids for these projects is November 18.

The Ministry is also seeking proposals for resort developments under the 'halal tourism' model in Addu City, Haa Dhaalu, and Laamu atolls. Under this initiative:

• A resort with a minimum capacity of 150 beds is planned for HDh. Makunudhoo lagoon
• A 100-bed resort is designated for L. Fonagaadhoo
• A minimum 100-bed resort is proposed for Addu Dhonhera, together with an adjacent uninhabited island measuring 0.85 hectares

The Ministry has additionally opened bidding for the lease of uninhabited islands, including Sh. Nalandhoo and N. Farumuli. The deadline for proposals for Nalandhoo is November 23, while submissions for Farumuli must be made by November 17.

All designated sites will be leased for a period of 50 years.