Government Earns MVR 35 Million in Land Acquisition Fees in First Half of 2025

The Maldivian government has received MVR 35 million in land acquisition and conversion fees so far this year, marking a significant increase compared to the same period last year. According to official figures released by the Ministry of Finance, the total for the same period in 2024 stood at just MVR 100,000.

This dramatic uptick reflects the growing momentum in the tourism sector, as the government continues to open more land and lagoon areas for development.

Land Fees Tied to Purpose and Location

The amount collected from land acquisition depends largely on the intended use and location of the leased land. Properties designated for tourism—particularly uninhabited islands and lagoons—typically command the highest fees. However, no specific annual estimate for total land acquisition revenue has been made public yet.

In April, the Ministry of Tourism opened new opportunities for resort development in Haa Alif Atoll Kelaa and Kaafu Atoll Kaashidhoo. Building on that initiative, the government announced today that 31 additional islands will be made available for tourism-related use.

Tourism Investment Continues to Expand

The growing interest in Maldivian tourism is also reflected in the figures from last year. In 2024, the state earned MVR 449 million from land acquisition fees. That revenue stemmed largely from the lease of 11 islands, which attracted around USD 400 million in total investment for resort development.

The Ministry of Tourism has been actively pushing resort construction, with 25 new resorts initiated last year alone. The current administration has also stated its goal to add 1,290 new beds to the national tourism capacity as part of its ongoing efforts to grow the sector.

Resort Development: Progress and Challenges

Despite strong investment interest, challenges remain. While 156 resorts are currently under development across the country, construction on 61 resort islands has stalled due to various unresolved issues.

Still, the Maldives continues to host a thriving tourism industry. At present, there are 180 fully operational resorts nationwide. These resorts make up roughly 70 percent of the Maldives’ total tourism bed capacity, a vital pillar of the country’s economy.

The industry is supported by 65 local tourism brands and 110 international hotel chains, highlighting the Maldives' continued appeal as a top-tier global travel destination.