The Government recorded USD 120 million in income from resort lease extensions, land sales and transfer fees during the past year.

Statistics released by the Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises show that 18 resort operators paid to extend their lease agreements during the year, while 15 companies paid a combined USD 12.7 million in fees related to resort land sales and transfers.

The ministry's report follows changes introduced to the Tourism Act in 2025, which established a temporary concession scheme allowing resort operators to extend lease periods at reduced rates if payments are made within specified timeframes.

Under the amended law, eligible resorts can secure a 49-year lease extension by paying a lump sum of USD 5 million within six months of the amendment taking effect. The fee increases to USD 10 million if paid after the initial six-month period. Separate rates also apply to 20-year and 25-year lease extensions.

The latest tourism figures show that the Maldives currently has 179 resorts offering a total of 44,977 beds nationwide.