Shangri-La Villingili Resort in Addu City has reopened after a five-year hiatus, fulfilling a presidential pledge made by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

The resort resumed operations on Tuesday afternoon, ending a prolonged closure that began in April 2020 following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The closure, which was formally announced in August 2020, resulted in the loss of employment for more than 500 workers and was widely felt across Addu City.

First opened in 2009, Shangri-La Villingili Resort & Spa was a major contributor to the local economy prior to its closure, providing employment for hundreds of residents and supporting tourism growth in the southern region. The resort also played a significant role in strengthening air connectivity through Gan International Airport.

The Ministry of Tourism and Environment said the reopening was finalised following months of discussions with Addu Investments Private Limited and other relevant stakeholders, during which the operator committed to resuming services by the end of the year.

As part of the reopening process, the Government engaged extensively with the resort’s management. Officials from the Ministry visited the property to assess required repairs and facilitated the issuance of necessary permits in accordance with regulations. Recruitment efforts for staff began in early November as preparations progressed, and President Dr Muizzu visited the resort last November to inspect the ongoing works.

The reopening of Shangri-La Villingili Resort is expected to provide a significant boost to Addu Atoll's economy, creating new employment opportunities and revitalising tourism in the southern atolls.