The Ministry of Tourism of the Maldives has announced an extension for the bidding deadline for the auctioned 16 islands for tourism development purposes.
“Considering the restrictions set forth globally due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Ministry of Tourism hereby announces an extension to the Bid Closing Date, till 24th June 2021. As such, the last date to obtain further information and to purchase the Bidding Documents will now be 20th June 2021.” read the announcement.
The Ministry opened bidding for the islands with a lowered acquisition cost after careful consideration of the current investment situation. Some of the islands up for bid include smaller islands near the main one and sandbanks as well. Both locals and foreign companies are allowed to take part in the bid for the above mentioned islands.
The Ministry previously estimated that 2021 would be a year filled with an abundant amount of investments in the tourism industry. The 2021 State Budget shows MVR 608.4 million as acquisition cost from islands for tourism development. However, the decision to reduce acquisition costs will have an adverse effect on the projected revenue.
LIST OF ISLANDS UP FOR BIDS:
- Velifinolhu
- Alidhuhfaru Finolhu
- Kudafaru Fasgandu
- Seedhee Huraa & M. Seedhee Huraa Veligandu
- Maausfushi
- Kaaddoo
- 10 hectares North of TH. Kanimeedhoo
- Olhufushi & Olhufushi Sandbank
- Kashidhoo
- Bodumunyafushi
- Dhonberaha & Holhurahaa
- Maarehaa
- Funadhooviligillaa
- Kandahalagalaa
- Kadevaarehaa & Dhigurehaa
- Fereythagillaa (inclusive of a number of other islands) Dhekaanbaa, Koderataa and a small 2.9-hectare island neighboring Fereythagillaa
