Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has said that the Ayla Sustainable Township project will open a whole new chapter in the Maldives’ tourism industry.
The Minister made the remarks while speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of the first sustainable township project to be developed in the Maldives under the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) framework.
Minister Saeed said the Ayla project is not merely a development initiative, but also an opportunity to rethink the country’s economic growth model and the future of its tourism industry. He said the project will mark a significant shift in how the Maldives positions itself in the global tourism market.
Highlighting increasing competition and changing tourist preferences worldwide, the Minister said creative thinking is no longer optional but a strategic necessity. He noted that the Maldives’ natural beauty and geographical isolation are unique resources that cannot be replicated elsewhere.
The Minister said the government is building on the strong foundation of the Maldives’ resort-based tourism model, while expanding the sector in line with evolving market demands. He added that projects such as Ayla will enrich visitor experiences and diversify tourism offerings.
“Projects like Ayla will enhance the world’s perception of the Maldives as not only a holiday destination, but also one of the most suitable places to live and invest in. It is an invaluable opportunity to be recognised as a destination for meaningful long-term engagement,” Minister Saeed said.
From an economic perspective, the Minister said the project will stimulate private sector growth in areas such as construction, retail, education, healthcare and logistics. He added that this will create employment opportunities, support technological advancement and improve national productivity.
The Ayla Sustainable Township is being developed by Crystal Holdings Pvt Ltd with a total investment of USD 790 million. The project is expected to be a unique development within the Indian Ocean region and globally, featuring modern infrastructure and sustainable design.