The Ministry of Tourism and Environment has opened bidding for five islands designated for halal tourism development, following President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s recent announcement to establish exclusive halal tourism projects in the Maldives.

The bidding process covers islands in Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu, Shaviyani, Thaa, and Laamu atolls. The Ministry stated that bidding for Seenu Hankede, another island identified for halal tourism, will begin once administrative preparations are completed.

According to the ministry, the minimum acquisition costs for the islands are as follows:

To make the investment more attractive, the Government has decided to reduce the lease acquisition cost for these islands by an additional 20 percent and offer flexible payment options. Under the new arrangement, lease acquisition fees can be paid during the first quarter of the fifth and sixth years. The Government has also decided to waive land rent for any islands or lagoons that are completed, opened, and operational before the end of the grace period, instead of deferring payment.

Additional incentives include exempting up to 20 per cent of the capital investment for resort development, and adding furniture, kitchen appliances, electronics, and similar amenities to the list of duty-exempt items.

The Ministry emphasised that halal tourism projects must adhere strictly to Islamic guidelines. Transactions involving alcohol and pork will be prohibited, and only halal-certified food and beverages may be served. Halal certification will be required for all relevant services. Each island must also include Islamic facilities, with two separate mosques for guests and staff, designed as distinctive architectural features.

Interested parties can express their interest from July 15 to August 4, with the deadline for bid submissions set for September 1, 2025.