The Ministry of Tourism in the Maldives has recently updated its list of islands and lagoons available for tourism development. In the latest changes, three islands have been removed, while six new lagoons and one island in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll have been added. This marks the third revision of the Ministry’s original list.
Removed Islands:
Lh. Dhiffushi (with Maidhoo) – Totaling 36.16 hectares
Th. Kanimeedhoo – 10 hectares
Gdh. Kalhehuttaa – 7.61 hectares
The Ministry has not provided specific reasons for the removal of these islands, leaving it unclear if they have been allocated to other parties or if the planned projects were canceled.
New Additions:
Lagoon in Baa Atoll – 0.60 hectares
Lagoon in Kaafu Atoll – 0.20 hectares
Lagoon in Kaafu Atoll – 82 hectares
Lagoon in Kaafu Atoll – 47 hectares
Lagoon in Vaavu Atoll – 0.14 hectares
Lagoon in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll – 0.35 hectares
Gdh. Raaverinkolhihuttaa – 0.77 hectares
The Ministry has also stated that proposals for tourism development must specify the exact area and size of the lagoon. The proposal submission form is available on the Ministry of Tourism’s website.