Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal has identified the United Kingdom as a vital market for positioning Addu City as a premier tourist destination. During the “Destination Addu-Summit 2024,” held on 18 August 2024, the Minister underscored the historical ties between Addu City and the UK, emphasizing the strategic advantage these connections offer in promoting tourism.
Key Points Raised by Minister Faisal
Minister Faisal highlighted Addu City’s unique historical relationship with the UK, noting that the British once resided in the region. He shared his recent discussions with the Heritage Minister, outlining a collaborative effort to leverage these ties in marketing Addu City to British tourists. As part of this initiative, British-built structures in Addu City are slated for renovation to appeal to UK visitors.
The Minister also advocated for Addu City Council’s participation in the World Travel Market (WTM) in the UK, emphasizing the potential benefits of international exposure for the region’s tourism sector.
Tourism Development Plans
In addition to the UK-focused promotional efforts, Minister Faisal announced the development of a comprehensive tourism plan for Addu City. Central to this plan is the renovation of the Shangri-La Villingili Resort & Spa, a project that the government has prioritized.
Minister Faisal revealed that an estimated USD 25 million (MVR 386 million) is required to reopen the resort, which was a key economic driver in Addu City before its closure during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Minister discussed the extensive renovation work needed and expressed his commitment to engaging with the resort’s owners to expedite the process.
Impact on Local Economy
The Shangri-La Villingili Resort, developed in partnership with Shangri-La, one of Hong Kong’s leading hotel chains, has been a significant contributor to Addu City’s economy. Its reopening is expected to rejuvenate the local economy, creating jobs and stimulating capital flow in the region.
Remarks by Addu City Mayor
Addu City Mayor Ali Nizar also spoke at the summit, praising the city’s unique features and abundant human resources, which position it well for tourism development. He highlighted the diverse tourism experiences Addu offers and its potential to become a leading destination in the Maldives.
However, Mayor Nizar expressed concern over the lack of local investment in the tourism sector and urged the people of Addu City to take a more active role in the region’s economic revival. He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts, stating that while the government can provide support and encouragement, the power to achieve success lies with the people of Addu City.
Conclusion
The government’s strategic focus on the UK market, combined with the planned renovation of the Shangri-La Villingili Resort, is expected to play a crucial role in revitalizing Addu City’s tourism industry. With increased local participation and international promotion, Addu City is well-positioned to reclaim its status as a key tourism hub in the Maldives.
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