President holds discussions with ICCD on expanding halal tourism in Maldives

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, on Wednesday, held discussions with the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD) on expanding halal tourism in the Maldives.

The ICCD is an affiliate of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), an organisation comprising countries with significant Muslim populations, and works to promote economic development opportunities across these nations.

According to the President’s Office, ICCD Secretary-General Sheikh Yousef Hassan Khalawi paid a courtesy call on President Muizzu on Wednesday.

The President’s Office stated that the meeting focused on developments in the Islamic economy, with particular emphasis on strengthening cooperation in areas including capacity building, investment, and halal tourism.

During the meeting, the ICCD Secretary-General presented President Muizzu with a handwritten copy of the Holy Quran as a gift.

In June last year, President Muizzu announced plans to further develop halal tourism in the Maldives by introducing various incentives for investors and designating specific islands for halal tourism initiatives.

Subsequently, when the Tourism Ministry invited bids for the development of 18 resorts last November, five islands were designated specifically for halal tourism development. The islands opened for the development of halal tourism resorts include HA. Binaafushi, HA. Kandaalifinolhu, the reef of HDh. Makunudhoo, Sh. Fushifaru, and L. Fonagaadhoo.