Seven groups express interest for three islands opened for resort development

The Ministry of Tourism has said that seven groups have expressed interest following the announcement of invitation for bids for resort development for three islands.

Tourism Minister Ahmed Adheeb said that assessment of the proposals of the groups that submitted expression of interest documents to develop the three resorts, would begin soon.

“We have received great support for the islands we announced this time. After assessing the proposals, the groups will be given the opportunity to submit the acquisition cost. The islands announced this time are very feasible,” he said.

The islands newly opened for resort development are Raa Ufulandhoo, Meemu Madifushi, from which people were transferred after the island was destroyed in the tsunami, Gaaf Alif Keradhdhoo, and Seenu Ismailaaheraa. Raa Ufulandhoo was later cancelled following a stay order after a case was filed to court in relation to this island.

The deadline for submitting expression of interest documents for the three islands was last Thursday.

The ministry made an announcement earlier saying that groups that express interest should have the financial capability to pay the acquisition cost, and the amount to be paid as acquisition cost would be announced when the request is made for the submission of proposals.