Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal has said that the Government is making significant strides towards reopening the Shangri-La Resort in Addu City, with a resolution expected by the end of the year.

Speaking to state media on January 16, 2025, the Minister announced that the Attorney General’s Office has issued a formal notice to Shangri-La, marking a key step in addressing the prolonged closure of the luxury property.

The 284-bed resort, which closed during the Covid-19 pandemic, has remained dormant, causing economic strain in Addu City. Initially launched as a joint venture with the Government holding a 30 per cent stake, the state relinquished its shares in August 2023 due to financial challenges stemming from the resort’s inactivity. Minister Faisal reassured the public that the resort’s reopening remains a top priority, as promised by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

Minister Faisal also highlighted efforts to boost tourism in Addu City by enhancing international air connectivity, with plans to facilitate 2–3 direct flights to Addu City monthly. 

He noted that while the exact timeline for renovations will depend on an assessment of the resort’s current condition, negotiations are progressing to ensure its swift revival.

Spanning 505,000 square metres, Shangri-La Resort is the largest in Addu, featuring 60 water villas, 26 beach villas, 28 pool villas, 16 treehouse villas, and two presidential villas. Its reopening is expected to revitalise Addu’s economy and provide a much-needed boost to employment in the region.