Maldives Opens New Island and Lagoon Sites for Resort Development

The Ministry of Tourism has expanded opportunities for resort development by adding new islands and lagoons to its list of available sites.

The ministry announced that proposals are now open for the development of Lhaan’bugali, with an acquisition fee set at USD 1.6 million. The island covers an area of 2.66 hectares.

In addition, the Ministry has finalized lease arrangements for the development of two islands and one lagoon from the locations opened for bidding in May. The successful proposals include Lh. Vihavaru Finolhu, a lagoon in Vaavu Atoll, and L. Hannhushi.

Additionally, several new islands and lagoons are now open for tourism development, including:

• HDh. Vaikaramuraidhoo – 15 hectares; USD 1.9 million
• Sh. Kudalhaimendhoo – 13.11 hectares; USD 2 million
• R. Dhikkuredhoo – 4.83 hectares; USD 2.6 million
• Lh. Diffushi (with Lh. Maidhoo) – 15.17 + 20.99 hectares; USD 18.6 million
• K. Himmiya Lagoon – 712 hectares; USD 23.5 million
• AA. Alikoirah – 1.47 hectares; USD 1.3 million
• Th. Gaalee (with another island in the atoll) – 6.96 + 0.20 hectares; USD 2 million
• Th. Ruhthibira – 8.41 hectares; USD 2.4 million
• Th. Kanimeedhoo – 10 hectares; USD 2.8 million
• L. Kashidhoo – 3.11 hectares; USD 466,500
• L. Bodumunyafushi – 3.14 hectares; USD 471,000
• GA. Beyrumaudoo – 3.08 hectares; USD 385,000
• GDh. Kalhehutta – 7.61 hectares; USD 951,250
• A lagoon in Kaafu Atoll – 45 hectares; USD 11 million

The proposal submission form is available on the Ministry of Tourism website.