The Ministry of Tourism has opened bidding for the development of three halal tourism sites to develop 15 new resort projects across the Maldives.

The ministry said the dedicated halal tourism sites include a 200-hectare lagoon at HDh. Makunudhoo Faru, an 8.18-hectare site at L. Fonadhoo and a 10.23-hectare site at S. Donhuraa.

The resorts will be leased for 50 years and must operate in full compliance with Islamic principles. Requirements include a ban on the sale of alcohol and pork products, the provision of halal-certified food, separate wellness facilities for men and women, and separate mosques for guests and staff.

Alongside the halal tourism developments, the ministry has also opened bidding for 10 lagoon resort projects in the northern atolls and two island resort developments. Lease acquisition costs for the lagoon projects range from USD 1.5 million to USD 2.1 million, while N. Farumuli carries the highest lease acquisition cost at USD 2.25 million.

Developers will be permitted to undertake land reclamation where required and will have 36 months to complete their projects.

The ministry also announced enhanced incentives for halal tourism developments. While conventional resort projects receive a 15 per cent import duty concession, halal tourism developments will qualify for a 20 per cent concession.

Bid submissions will be accepted between 17 and 23 November.