Government revenue from resort rent rose to USD 103.76 million during the first nine months of 2026, marking a reported 10.8 per cent increase compared with the corresponding period last year.
Statistics from the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) show that resort rent collections continue to increase year on year. Revenue stood at approximately USD 90.79 million during the same period in 2025.
The Ministry of Tourism's latest daily update shows that the Maldives has 184 registered resorts, with 180 currently operating and offering a combined 45,171 tourist beds.
Resorts remain the most popular accommodation choice among visitors. Ministry statistics show that 73.8 per cent of tourists arriving in the Maldives so far this year, representing more than 1.2 million visitors, have stayed at resorts.
However, many islands and lagoons allocated for tourism development have remained undeveloped for years.
Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen recently highlighted the losses these delays have caused the Government and the public.
The Minister noted that 161 islands and lagoons allocated for tourism development remain unopened, including properties that have remained undeveloped for 20 or 25 years.
He also revealed that outstanding land rent payments from these properties exceed USD 500 million.
To address these prolonged delays, the Government has formulated regulations outlining measures against developers who fail to complete tourism projects within extended periods.
The regulations also establish provisions for terminating agreements covering these properties.