The Maldives, an international beacon of luxury tourism, is moving to expand its economic footprint with a foray into medical tourism—a sector poised for strategic growth—according to Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, the Minister of Health. He has confirmed that the administration is actively evaluating proposals from foreign investors seeking to establish specialised hospitals catering to international patients.
The initiative, he explained during an appearance on the 'Ahaashey Bunaanan' programme—broadcast on Television Maldives (TVM) and Dhivehi Raajjeyge Adu (DRA)—forms part of a broader effort to diversify the country's tourism portfolio. By capitalising on the Maldives' reputation for high-end travel and hospitality, the administration aims to position the nation as a premier destination where medical expertise and luxury converge, he said.
Proposals under review, according to the minister, outline various approaches to medical tourism infrastructure. Some investors envision a comprehensive framework that integrates treatment facilities with educational institutions dedicated to training healthcare professionals, he said. Others, according to him, propose the incorporation of medical establishments within existing resort properties, creating a model that combines healthcare and leisure in a setting designed to attract travellers seeking both convalescence and exclusivity.
The Economic Council is expected to assess these proposals in accordance with established governmental procedures. Minister Nazim, expressing optimism about the initiative, noted that discussions are ongoing. "In my opinion, this is a very positive development," he said. "We are exploring the possibilities, and should the framework be viable, it will proceed."
Efforts to bolster the Maldives' medical tourism prospects have already begun. The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) has partnered with ADK Hospital, a leading healthcare provider, to promote the country's capacity to deliver internationally accredited medical services. Officials highlight the Maldives' unique appeal—where pristine landscapes meet advanced healthcare—arguing that the combination will resonate with patients seeking world-class treatment in an exclusive setting.