The Government has announced that Shangri-La Villingili Resort and Spa in Addu City is scheduled to reopen by 31 December 2025.

The property has remained closed since March 2020, when operations were suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and its reopening was among the campaign pledges of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

The Ministry of Tourism and Environment said the decision was finalised after months of discussions with Addu Investments Private Limited and other stakeholders, resulting in a commitment from the operator to resume operations by year’s end.

First opened in 2009, Shangri-La’s Villingili was a major contributor to Addu’s economy before its closure, employing more than 500 staff and playing a key role in strengthening connectivity through Gan International Airport. The Ministry stated that its reopening is expected to once again drive growth in the south and enhance Addu’s development prospects.

The Ministry further highlighted that the return of the resort will not only revitalise Addu’s tourism sector but also advance the Administration’s policy of ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach communities across the Maldives.