Thu, 23 Jul 2026
|DHIVEHI
Government excludes Savaaheli from Addu City's administrative area
23 Jul 2026
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Savaaheli Island – Photo: Times of Addu
The Government has amended the administrative boundary of Addu City, removing Savaaheli from the city's jurisdiction to facilitate tourism development.
The change was made through Decree No. 13/2026, issued under Section 56-1(a) of the Decentralisation Act, which authorises the President to determine the jurisdictions of city and island councils.
Following the amendment, a revised map showing Addu City's new administrative boundary has been published in the Government Gazette.
The move comes as the Government advances plans to promote investment and economic development in Addu Atoll. In his 2026 Presidential Address, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced that Addu Atoll will be designated a special incentive zone for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) for three years beginning 1 January 2027.
Under the initiative, eligible businesses will receive incentives including exemptions from land rent, income tax and other State charges, alongside additional support measures.
The President has said the programme is expected to stimulate SME growth, create employment opportunities and encourage local and foreign investment, while supporting plans to develop Addu Atoll as an information technology hub.