Maldives expands tourism with halal island for global Muslim tourists
Hankede Island near equator to be revived as alcohol-free halal resort zone aimed at Muslim travelers from Asia, Middle East
MALE, Maldives (MNTV) — The Maldivian government has announced the revival of a long-stalled plan to develop Hankede Island in Seenu Atoll — the southernmost atoll of the Maldives, located just south of the equator — as a dedicated halal tourism destination.
The project, first proposed in 2005, has failed to take off under multiple governments over the past two decades. Now, the Ministry of Tourism has included Hankede among six regions identified for halal tourism development, with planning procedures currently underway.
Halal tourism caters specifically to Muslim travelers, offering alcohol-free environments, prayer facilities, halal-certified dining, and other religiously appropriate services. The Maldives hopes this move will diversify its globally renowned tourism industry, which has largely centered on luxury island resorts catering to Western travelers.
Previous attempts to develop Hankede have faltered repeatedly. The Maldives Fund Management Corporation had awarded the project to China’s National Electrical Engineering Company in a prior administration, but progress stalled — reportedly due to financing issues. No official explanation was provided, though the delay became subject to a parliamentary motion.
According to local reports, at least three companies failed to deliver on earlier development plans:
- In 2006, Thoondu Pvt Ltd was fined after failing to begin work.
- In 2008, Half Degree constructed a single sample room and halted development.
- In 2014, Singapore’s Crescendas Group proposed a four- or five-star resort, but no construction followed.
The latest revival was announced during the 2024 parliamentary election cycle, with officials positioning Hankede as a potential flagship halal tourism destination in the southern Maldives — aimed at attracting travelers from Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and other Muslim-majority regions.
If successful, the project could bring long-awaited economic development to Addu City, which has struggled to attract major tourism investment despite its strategic location and proximity to Gan International Airport.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
