Minister of Tourism Ali Waheed has said the times when the tourism industry was run without a policy or a principle has now come to an end.
Addressing a function held in Ukulhas, an island in Alifu Alifu atoll where local tourism is blossoming, Minister Ali Waheed said, in the past, there was no principle even in leasing islands, lagoons and reef formations and therefore, the tourism industry was unable to reap maximum benefits. The tourism minister added those times have come to an end, noting arrangements would be made in a manner through which all citizens would be able to enjoy the profits of the tourism industry.
The minister also revealed efforts on the formulation of an integrated master plan for the sustainable development of tourism, which would be completed during a tourism symposium with the participation of all stakeholders. He further noted the tourism promotion budget has been increased threefold and pledged destination marketing for all islands of the country.
President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has pledged to increase the tourism promotion budget threefold and to hold a tourism symposium, within the first 100 days of his administration.