Dubai-based Atoll Estates has begun efforts to develop the islands in Tholhimaraahuraa, Kaafu Atoll, as the world’s first net carbon-neutral integrated tourist resort.
Atoll Estates stated that it will be conducting the work under Project Delphin in order to develop the world’s first luxury resort that is 100% reliant on renewable energy and operated under sustainable policies.
The Government of the Maldives plans to develop multiple resort islands in an environmentally friendly manner. The project area spans 5km long and 1.35km wide and the islands are located in the same lagoon in Kaafu Atoll.
The development will begin after reclaiming 50 hectares of land in a way that minimises the damage to the environment. Atoll Estates stated that a large coral restoration project will begin after the land is reclaimed. The company also stated that the resorts will be 500m apart from each other and will be connected via bridges. Tourists will be able to travel to the resorts within 40 minutes via speedboat from Velana International Airport (VIA).
Atoll Estates estimates that the project will be completed by 2025. The company was formed with investments from Russia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) leased Tholhimaraahuraa lagoon to Dubai-based Delama Tourism Limited Liability Company in 2016. Atoll Estates bought the lagoon after the previous company decided to release it.