The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation has partnered with UNFPA Maldives to introduce a community tourism empowerment model aimed at increasing public participation in the tourism sector and ensuring local communities play a greater role in tourism development.

The initiative was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the ministry and UNFPA Maldives. According to the ministry, the "People-Centred Community Tourism Empowerment Model" is designed to place the needs and aspirations of island communities at the centre of tourism expansion efforts.

The pilot programme will be implemented in Baa Atoll Dharavandhoo, Dhonfanu, Kihaadhoo and Kudarikilu, with a particular focus on creating opportunities for women, young people and senior citizens to participate more actively in tourism-related economic activities.

The ministry said the first phase of the project will involve community mapping exercises to better understand local needs, resources and opportunities. The findings will be used to guide future phases focused on capacity building, innovation and community-led tourism development.

Additionally, the initiative represents an important step towards developing a more inclusive tourism model that directly benefits island communities while strengthening their role in the sustainable development of the Maldives.