The Government of the Maldives has formalised an agreement with Henley & Partners to introduce the country’s inaugural residence by investment initiative.

The agreement was officially signed during the Maldives–Singapore Business Forum 2025, held on Sentosa Island. Speaking at the event, Mohamed Saeed, Minister of Economic Development and Trade, highlighted the Maldives’ longstanding global appeal as a premier destination.

He noted that the new scheme seeks to build on this reputation by attracting discerning international investors who value the country's human capital, natural assets, and long-term potential. The partnership with Henley & Partners, he explained, reflects the Government’s commitment to aligning with trusted global institutions to advance sustainable economic diversification.

Recognised as one of the world’s most prestigious luxury destinations, the nation is now extending its value proposition to investors through long-term residency opportunities. Philippe Amarante, Managing Partner and Head of Government Advisory EMEA at Henley & Partners, outlined that the programme would leverage the Maldives’ premium real estate assets to deliver high-end, private, and secure properties. He described the country as a stable and serene jurisdiction, ideally suited for high-net-worth individuals seeking certainty, safety, and an elevated lifestyle in an increasingly volatile global context.

In addition to its real estate dimension, the residence by investment initiative is designed to serve as a foundational element of the Maldives’ economic reform agenda. By encouraging high-calibre foreign capital inflows, the programme is expected to stimulate growth across a range of sectors, including infrastructure, hospitality, and public services. The Administration has indicated that participation from ultra-high-net-worth individuals will foster deeper economic engagement and catalyse longer-term financial commitments, thus contributing to employment generation and national resilience.

Justifying the selection of Henley & Partners as its strategic advisor, Minister Saeed pointed to the firm’s well-established global standing, technical expertise, and proven success in administering complex migration investment frameworks. He confirmed that a rigorous assessment process is currently underway to ensure the initiative remains fully aligned with national priorities and adheres to the sustainable development benchmarks outlined in Vision 2040.

Reaffirming this approach, Mr Amarante stressed the firm’s dedication to principles of good governance, noting that well-structured investment migration programmes must be anchored in transparency, compliance, and ethical responsibility. He underscored that, when properly governed, such mechanisms effectively bridge global capital and local development goals.

Concurrently, the agreement highlights a mutual emphasis on robust regulatory standards and risk mitigation. The Ministry stated that a comprehensive due diligence system would be put in place to ensure that only credible and eligible applicants are considered. All residency authorisations will remain under the sovereign jurisdiction of the Government, which will enforce strong safeguards to protect national interests and maintain the Maldives’ international credibility.

Looking forward, Henley & Partners will work in close collaboration with the Government to design a bespoke investor visa model linked directly to real estate acquisition. Backed by over USD 15 billion in global foreign direct investment facilitated through its advisory platform, the firm is expected to provide valuable strategic guidance and policy expertise.

The Administration anticipates that this partnership will ensure the programme’s integrity and long-term success, positioning the Maldives as a leading and secure destination for global investment migration.