The latest amendment to the Maldives Tourism Act has introduced a comprehensive framework for leasing land and lagoons for resort development, formally recognising Tourism Training Resorts and strengthening regulatory oversight across the sector.
The 16th Amendment, passed by the 20th Parliament on 3 December 2025, came into force following ratification by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.
A key component of the amendment is the establishment of Tourism Training Resorts as officially recognised tourist facilities, with defined procedures for their lease, development, and operation. The legislation also clarifies that within inhabited islands and city jurisdictions, only tourist guesthouses or tourist hotels may be developed, with revenue from these facilities allocated directly to the respective Island or City Council.
The amendment further expands eligibility for leasing tourism property to State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). Companies with at least 45 per cent Government ownership may now lease islands, land, or lagoons for the development of tourist resorts or integrated resort projects.
To support ongoing industry growth, the amendment authorises lease extensions of up to six months for completing construction, with clear conditions established for approval. It also sets out definitions for lagoon boundaries for islands leased for tourism purposes.
The legislation introduces new licensing requirements for tourism-related travel planning and management services. Only parties holding a valid Tour Operator Licence may conduct such activities in the Maldives, while foreign operators must obtain a Foreign Tour Operator Licence before offering services in the country.
The Ministry of Tourism and Environment has also been empowered to defer rent payments for facilities closed for redevelopment, including postponing accrued fines, in accordance with regulations.
To reinforce compliance, the amendment sets penalties of up to MVR 1 million for providing tourist services without the required licence, with fines determined based on the severity and duration of the violation.
The amendment took immediate effect upon its publication in the Government Gazette.