Gov’t to Expedite Development of Long-Abandoned Resort Islands, Says Minister

The Minister of Tourism, Ibrahim Faisal, has unveiled a series of strategic decisions aimed at accelerating the development of abandoned islands leased for resort projects. 

In an interview with PSM News, Minister Faisal disclosed that the Economic Council has approved two significant measures from a proposal designed to expedite this process.

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The first approved measure involves reclaiming islands where no development activities have occurred, returning them to state control without conditions. To address the substantial fees owed by lessees to the state, the tourism ministry will collaborate with the Ministry of Finance and the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) to negotiate concessions.

The second measure focuses on resolving issues for islands where development has stalled. The tourism ministry will assist in securing necessary funds or facilitate the sale of these islands to new developers, aiming to ensure progress.

Minister Faisal emphasised that accelerating the development of these islands will necessitate legal adjustments, noting the significant financial losses incurred by the state when leased islands remain undeveloped.

The minister also highlighted plans to develop and open more islands as resorts during his tenure. He projected that 12 to 15 new resorts will be opened over the next five years, boosting the tourism sector and the national economy.

This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to revitalising the tourism industry and maximising the potential of the nation’s natural resources.