Kendhikulhudhoo, Noonu Atoll has devised a concept to introduce community based tourism to the island.
The Kendhikulhudhoo Island Council plans to lease land under the concept and is now seeking public opinion over the regulation.
In a strategic effort to position Kendhikulhudhoo as a premier local tourism destination, the Island Council has adopted the brand name 'The Mangrove Island,' as announced by the council. This initiative, according to the council, heralds the commencement of extensive advertising and marketing campaigns under the new identity.
According to the Island Council, the concept of community-based tourism has been introduced to provide opportunities for young entrepreneurs and businesses. The regulation on leasing land under the concept is now open for public comment, it said.
Prospective applicants must be a resident of Kendhikulhudhoo or a business registered in the island or a business in which a resident of Kendhikulhudhoo holds at least 50 percent of the shares.
The size of the land allocated is 1200 square feet each where at least 300 square feet green area must be dedicated as a buffer zone, according to the Island Council.
Kendhikulhudhoo has been granted necessary permits to offer homestay services to visitors. Projects are underway to construct luxury villas on the island, with plans for these villas to feature 70 rooms. The development of a city hotel is also advancing rapidly, with a portion of the 70-bed city hotel expected to be completed and operational by the end of this year.
Kendhikulhudhoo is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and distinctive environmental features, including one of the largest mangrove forests in the Maldives. The island is home to nine distinct mangrove areas, forming a rich and diverse ecosystem. Among these, three mangroves span from 400 feet to 3,000 feet. The island's wetlands serve as a sanctuary for numerous bird and fish species, and Kendhikulhudhoo boasts a healthy soil profile that supports lush vegetation.