MDP MP for Maradhoo Ahmed Didi has claimed that Shangri-La Villingili Resort was reopened “in name only” under political pressure, despite renovation work remaining incomplete.
The resort officially reopened on December 30, 2025, after being closed for five years. In recent days, rumours circulated that the resort had closed again, though the Shangri-La Group has denied this.
Speaking on SSTV’s Baaru Hathareh programme on Tuesday night, Didi said the reopening was symbolic and that the property is not yet ready to receive guests.
“The place is open, but no guests. It is still under repair. Just a restaurant, two rooms renovated, and then hanging an ‘open’ board will not bring in guests. It is a signature destination product of Shangri-La. They will not open it unless it is developed to the level they want,” he said.
Maradhoo MP Ahmed Didi attends the inaugural sitting of the 20th parliamentary assembly on May 28, 2024. (Photo/People's Majlis)
Didi said a few people may visit through personal invitations, but insisted the resort is not operational.
He alleged that the government pressured Shangri-La to reopen before December 31 for political reasons, noting that new laws allow the state to seize properties that remain closed beyond that date.
As evidence, he pointed out that no major booking platform lists Shangri-La Villingili as available for reservations.
“They were forced to do it. The resort is not open to guests. Not available on any booking platform in the world. Tourist agents do not show Shangri-La as available,” he said.
Shangri-La reopens after five years, welcomes first tourist, December 30, 2025. (Photo/Ministry of Tourism and Environment)
Didi said the reopening was “purely symbolic,” adding that reports indicate Shangri-La aims to complete renovation work this year and resume full operations by the 2027 season.
He said the government’s narrative does not match the reality on the ground.
Interestingly, major booking sites such as Agoda and Booking.com list Shangri-La Maldives, but show it as fully sold out throughout this year and next.
Shangri-La Villingili originally opened on July 31, 2009, located five minutes by speedboat from Addu International Airport. The resort remained closed for years following the COVID‑19 pandemic.
The previous MDP administration held talks with the owners to restart operations, but negotiations failed and the government sold its 30 percent stake. Reopening the resort was a campaign pledge of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.