The Ministry of Tourism and Environment has announced the opportunity for the development and operation of resorts in Kaafu Kaashidhoo and Haa Alif Kelaa Lagoons, inviting interested parties to participate in the bidding process.

According to official notifications published in the Government Gazette, two resorts, covering a area of 12.19 hectares, are designated for development in Kela Lagoon, while a 10-hectare resort is planned for Kaashidhoo Lagoon.

In order to facilitate the bidding process, the Ministry will conduct online awareness sessions on April 15 and May 6, 2025 at 10:00 am. Interested parties must register for these sessions by submitting their applications via email to [email protected] no later than 14 April and 5 May 2025, respectively.

Additionally, the Ministry has announced that the auction information book will be available for purchase between April 7 and June 3, 2025, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm daily. The application form for the purchase of the bid book may be accessed through the official website of the Ministry.

The decision to develop resorts in Kelaa Lagoon follows an amendment to the Tourism Act, granting the President the authority to designate areas within islands and cities for tourism-related purposes.

This legislative change seeks to address longstanding challenges stemming from local councils’ lack of legal authority to allocate land for resort development due to decentralisation laws. The Government remains committed to expanding tourism in underdeveloped areas, aiming to enhance economic opportunities and establish sustainable solutions for stalled projects.