Government to develop Hankede as a Halal Tourism island

The government has announced plans to develop Seenu atoll Hankede as a halal tourism island, reviving a project that has remained dormant for nearly two decades.

Hankede, located in Addu City, was first earmarked for tourism development in 2005. Since then, multiple administrations have announced intentions to develop the island, but none have succeeded in implementing the project.

The Ministry of Tourism has now included Hankede among six regions across Maldives designated for halal tourism development. The ministry is currently working on finalizing procedures to commence the project.

The concept of halal tourism, which caters to Muslim travelers by offering alcohol-free environments, prayer facilities, and halal food, is expected to diversify the Maldives’ tourism industry.

The Maldives Fund Management Corporation (MFMC) had previously awarded the development of Hankede to China’s National Electrical Engineering Company during the previous administration.

However, the project stalled, reportedly due to lack of financing, although MFMC did not officially confirm this. A motion was filed in Parliament over the prolonged delay.

Over the years, Hankede project has seen several unsuccessful attempts at development:

- In 2006, Thoondu Pvt Ltd, a Fuvahmulah-based company, was awarded the project, but failed to proceed and was fined USD 2,500.

- In 2008, Half Degree took over and constructed a sample room, but no further development occurred.

- In 2014, Singapore’s Crescendas Group was granted the contract and presented plans to develop a four or five-star resort, but the project again failed to progress.

The government re-announced the project during the 2024 parliamentary elections, with hopes of finally realizing the long-delayed vision for Hankede as a flagship halal tourism destination in southern Maldives.