The foundation stone of the Hankede Integrated Tourism Development Project has been laid in a event held in Addu City. The project was officiated by the Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan. This initiative marks as the biggest project targetting the development of the tourism sector within the city. The project worth USD 142.9 million, aims to pave a road for Addu City to be developed sustainably, in addition to bringing advancements to the tourism industry.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Ihusaan observed the launch of the project was a long-awaited vision of the residents of Addu City, noting that the practical work of the project will commence in two weeks. The minister stated that this project will enhance employment prospects, creating 3,000 job opportunities.

The project was entrusted by the Maldives Fund Management Corporation to China National Electric Engineering Company (CNEEC). The pertaining agreements signed by the companies on March 23, 2023, outlines the development of the project through engineering, procurement, and constructions required.

Providing an insight on the project, Maldives Fund Management Corporation revealed that the Hankeda project will have the capacity to accommodate 2,082 beds along with 1,041 rooms. It further disclosed that a variety of hotels of different standards will be established under the project. This encompasses of two grand hotels, two deluxe hotels, ten boutique hotels, 64 serviced apartments and seven beach villas. Several additional facilities will be provided under the project, including a knowledge centre, mix sport building, outdoor beach sports, theatre and other such entertainment facilities. Building will also be developed designated for food courts, restaurants and small firms.

The project will undoubtedly serve as a transformative endeavour to the entire city, bringing revolutionary changes to the tourism sector as well.

Source(s): PsmNews

The Fuvahmulah City Council has launched a significant project aimed at developing a tourism zone within the city, covering an expansive area of 12 hectares. An agreement laying the groundwork for this transformative endeavor was recently signed between the Fuvahmulah City Council and Regional Airports, symbolising a pivotal step towards its realization. Mayor Ismail Rafeeq and the Managing Director of Regional Airports, Ahmed Mubeen, officiated the contract signing.

The comprehensive two-year agreement delineates the collaborative responsibilities of Regional Airports and the city council, encompassing investor recruitment, project design, and development. Mayor Ismail Rafeeq articulated his vision for the project, emphasizing the establishment of recreational service centers alongside accommodations for tourists.

With a focus on attracting more visitors to the city, Mayor Rafeeq highlighted ongoing efforts to bolster Fuvahmulah’s air transportation infrastructure. Plans are underway to commence physical work on the development before the year’s end, underscoring the council’s commitment to swift progress. Additionally, discussions are ongoing to explore the potential expansion of Fuvahmulah’s airport to accommodate jet landings.

Fuvahmulah City is renowned for its acclaimed diving spots, drawing a significant number of tourists seeking immersive experiences. Presently, the city boasts 21 guesthouses, catering to the influx of visitors flocking to explore its natural wonders.

Source(s): PsmNews

The Ministry of Tourism has released its latest daily reports, indicating that tourist arrivals in the Maldives surpassed six hundred thousand by March 31. Statistical figures reveal a significant 15.3% increase in tourist arrivals within the first three months of this year compared to the same period in 2023, with 604,004 tourists visiting the country in 2024 compared to 523,928 in 2023.

The tourism industry’s growth trajectory was particularly notable in February 2024, which witnessed a record-breaking number of tourist arrivals, exceeding two million. On average, the Maldives welcomes approximately 6,265 tourists daily, with visitors spending an average of 8 days during their stay.

The breakdown of tourist arrivals by month is as follows:

In January – 192,385 tourist arrivals
In February – 217,394 tourist arrivals
In March – 196,227 tourist arrivals

Chinese tourists constitute the largest portion of total tourist arrivals so far this year, accounting for 11.2% of the overall figure, with 67,399 visitors. Following China, Russia and the United Kingdom stand out as the next highest sources of tourists, with 61,752 and 58,382 arrivals, respectively.

In conclusion, while the Maldives has already welcomed over six hundred thousand tourists, the government remains committed to achieving its target of attracting two million tourists. To achieve this goal, the government plans to initiate various advertising projects and programs aimed at promoting the Maldives as a premier tourist destination.

Source(s): PsmNews