President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated the new airport developed in Hoarafushi, Haa Alifu Atoll is an important investment that paves the way for further development in the region.
Speaking at the ceremony held to officially inaugurate Hoarafushi Airport, President Solih stated the new airport has paved the way for tourism development in Haa Alifu Atoll and the Ihavandhippolhu Region. The president remarked that earlier this week, upon consultation with the Ministry of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, he had approved the proposed land plots for tourism development in Hoarafushi, and urged the Hoarafushi Island Council to proceed with the plans swiftly. He also noted a plot of over 800,000 square feet was placed on tender on November 15 from Kelaa in Haa Alifu Atoll, designated for the development of a tourist hotel.
Speaking further, President Solih described other opportunities available in the region, including a project to develop a tourist hotel and a yacht marina in Uligamu, Haa Alifu Atoll which will be put on tender shortly. He noted a total of 38 yachts made berth in Ulimagu this year before the border closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Noting Maldives Customs Service and Maldives Immigration have introduced its services on the island, the president indicated reductions will be brought to berthing fees.
The president went on to name Haa Alifu Atoll, Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Shaviyani Atoll and Noonu Atoll as regions with tourism projects planned to commence early next year. He also announced the government’s plan to connect airports across the country, namely Hanimaadhoo International Airport and Gan International Airport, with international destinations.