Male’, Maldives, 18 August 2024 – The “Destination Addu City Summit” was held at Equator Village, gathering over 100 participants in a significant move to enhance tourism in Addu City. Organized by the Addu City Council under the theme “One Brand, One Story,” the summit aims to address the challenges hindering the expansion of tourism in the region.
Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal presented a strategic vision during the summit, focusing on the importance of branding and infrastructure development to position Addu as a premier tourist destination. Minister Faisal highlighted Addu City’s historical significance, particularly its British-era heritage, and outlined plans to restore these sites in collaboration with the heritage ministry. He emphasized that effective branding is essential to elevating Addu in the global tourism market, with a targeted approach towards attracting visitors from the United Kingdom.
The minister also stressed the critical need for establishing direct flights to Addu, which he said are crucial for making resorts operational and driving tourism growth. He affirmed the government’s commitment, along with support from the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), to promote Addu’s unique culture and tourism potential.
Addu City Mayor Ali Nizar also addressed the summit, calling for increased community involvement in local tourism efforts and highlighting the need for more infrastructure and accommodation options. He noted that Addu City’s tourism plans include the development of tourism zones, local tourism initiatives, and the Hankede Integrated Tourism Project.
Summit discussions focused on overcoming barriers to making Addu a top tourist destination, including the reopening of the Shangri-La Villingili Resort and Spa, which requires extensive renovations. Minister Faisal emphasized the economic significance of reviving the resort, which is expected to play a key role in revitalizing tourism in Addu.
As the summit continues, collaborative efforts between the government, Addu City Council, and key stakeholders are set to shape a promising future for tourism in the southernmost region of the Maldives.
