Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen has announced that the government’s ongoing efforts to diversify the nation's tourism sector through innovative models are yielding tangible, positive results.
Addressing the People’s National Congress (PNC) Senate during a special presentation on the tourism industry, Minister Ameen emphasised that the administration of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu is steadfastly committed to expanding the tourism footprint beyond its traditional, concentrated boundaries into under-represented regions of the country.
For decades, successful tourism operations have been confined to a relatively small geographical area. To address this, the current administration has made it a priority to drive industry growth in the northern and southern archipelagos—a complex regional development challenge that remained unfulfilled for the past 30 years.
To achieve sustainable growth and appeal to broader global markets, the government is introducing novel concepts, including Halal tourism, supported by a suite of strategic incentives such as lease acquisition fee concessions and tax system adjustments.
"Three locations have already been handed over. Two parties are progressing in the development stage by submitting their plans. Some individuals have begun developing places under models previously absent in the Maldives," Minister Ameen said, noting the enthusiastic response from developers.
Outlining the government's strategic roadmap, the Minister detailed several flagship initiatives currently underway:
Asseyri Tourism: Focused on the southern atoll of Addu, this ambitious project aims to introduce 6,000 new beds, a dedicated seaplane hub, and generate 10,000 local jobs.
Integrated Tourism: Plans are moving forward to establish eco-tourism opportunities and a city hotel in Fuvahmulah, alongside integrated tourism developments spanning four additional islands.
Halal Tourism: Development projects catering specifically to this segment are actively progressing across four designated islands.
Beyond these major hubs, Minister Ameen noted that the government’s broader diversification strategy encompasses local tourism, cultural tourism, surfing tourism, the establishment of visitor centres, new resort developments, and essential airport infrastructure upgrades.