Fushifaru Island Added to Maldives' Halal Tourism Development Bid List

The Ministry of Tourism and Environment has expanded its specialized Halal tourism initiative by adding Fushifaru Island in Shaviyani Atoll to the public bidding process. This move opens new investment opportunities for developing resorts tailored to the growing Halal market segment. Fushifaru, a 4.34-hectare site with a planned capacity of 100 beds, joins Makunudhoo in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Fonagaadhoo in Laamu Atoll, and Dhonhera in Seenu Atoll in the government's portfolio for Halal tourism. The inclusion was formalized through an amendment to the official framework, allowing investors to lease and manage designated islands and lagoons. Properties come with 50-year lease terms, requiring construction to commence within 36 months of lease execution. Investors are permitted to undertake land reclamation to facilitate development. Financial incentives include five-to-six-year installment plans for acquisition fees, a 20 percent waiver on duties, and a waiver of land rent for the remainder of the construction grace period if resorts open ahead of schedule. The addition of Fushifaru necessitated a revised procurement timeline and a supplementary pre-bid meeting. Proposals for the Halal tourism initiative are due by 11:00 a.m. on 11 May. In a parallel development, the deadline for bids on 13 other commercial resort areas has been extended to 1:00 p.m. on 13 May.