Maldives Unlocks New Resort Investment Opportunities in the Northern Atolls

New Resort Investment Opportunities in the Northern Atolls
The Maldives has launched a major new tourism development initiative, inviting both local and international investors to bid for resort projects across the northern region of the country. Announced by the Ministry of Tourism and Environment on Thursday, the tender offers a rare chance to develop untouched islands and lagoons in Haa Alif, Haa Dhaalu, Shaviyani, and Laamu atolls—areas renowned for pristine reefs, unexplored dive spots, and remarkable natural beauty.

This expansion marks a strategic shift toward bringing investment and employment opportunities to remote communities while reducing development pressure on the more saturated central atolls.

Prime Resort Plots Now Open for Investment

Large-scale development zones have been made available in three northern atolls:

Haa Alif Atoll

• Maadhuni Faru 1 — 200 hectares
• Maadhuni Faru 2 — 200 hectares
• Maadhuni Faru 3 — 200 hectares
• Kela Lagoon 1 — 156.2 hectares
• Kela Lagoon 2 — 169.3 hectares

Haa Dhaalu Atoll

• Makunudhoo Faru 1 — 200 hectares
• Makunudhoo Faru 2 — 200 hectares
• Maafaru Faru 1 — 200 hectares
• Maafaru Faru 2 — 200 hectares
• Maafaru Faru 3 — 200 hectares

Shaviyani Atoll

• Gona Faru 1 — 200 hectares
• Gona Faru 2 — 200 hectares
• Gona Faru 3 — 200 hectares

These vast plots provide opportunities for luxury resorts, wellness retreats, eco-friendly hospitality operations, and multi-island tourism concepts.

New Halal Tourism Zones

Recognizing the growing global demand for Muslim-friendly holiday experiences, the government has also included five specially designated halal tourism sites:

• HA. Beenafushi — 2.21 hectares
• HA. Kandaalifinolhu — 5.05 hectares
• HDh. Makunudhoo Faru 1 — 200 hectares
• Sh. Furifaru — 4.34 hectares
• L. Fonagaadhoo — 8.18 hectares

This positioning allows investors to tap into one of the fastest-growing tourism segments in the world.

Bid Schedule and Key Dates

The government has published the following timeline for participants: