Minister of Economic Development Fayyaz Ismail has stated that the development of Gan International Airport (GIA) will result in 6,000 tourist beds to come to operation in Addu City. He made the remark at the ceremony held to award India-based Renaatus Projects Private Limited the GIA development project.
At the ceremony, Minister Fayyaz noted that Addu is yet to have the necessary infrastructure of a city but that the government is implementing its plan to develop Addu into the main economic hub of the southern region. He also highlighted the importance of providing job opportunities to residents of Addu while also building infrastructure, and said that the development of GIA will assist in these efforts.
Additionally, Minister Fayyaz said that preparations are being made to begin the development of Hankede and reopen Shangri-La Villingili Resort, which will allow 6,000 tourist beds to come into operation. He also said the land reclamation project includes the development of resorts, and that the government is in discussions with guesthouses to solve their financial issues and mobilise in April or May.
Furthermore, Minister Fayyaz highlighted the potential for tourism in Addu but said that the private sector currently faces challenges in establishing businesses in the region due to the lack of infrastructure. He also said that Addu has huge potential for the fisheries sector and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).