Ground has been broken for the first-ever Sustainable Township initiated by the current Administration in the Maldives – Project Ayla – on Thursday, officiated by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. 

The Sustainable Township, being developed across Dhigufaru, Dhekenanfaru, and Kuramaadhoo Falhu in Noonu Atoll, signifies a pivotal moment for the nation as the pilot project under the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Act. Valued at USD 790 million, and contracted to Crystal Holdings Pvt Ltd, Project Ayla is scheduled for completion by 2028. 

Project Ayla will boast an ultra-luxury resort and marina, luxury residences, a world-class health and wellness facilities, along with a leading tourism and hospitality school. It will also incorporate aquaculture and mariculture zones supported by modern agricultural technology. Apart from tourism-related infrastructure, the township will also include socially vital assets meant to support long-term national development. 

The project, with sustainability as a central feature, plans to generate 60 per cent of its electricity from renewable energy sources.

Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed, previously described the project as a gateway for new investment avenues and employment that will contribute to the Administration’s economic development strategy. 

With the groundwork commenced for the township, Project Ayla is primed to elevate the economy and deliver sustainable development to the nation.