Addu Shangri-La Resort reopened after five years

Addu Shangri-La Villingili Resort and Spa Maldives has reopened yesterday after major repairs have been done, which is a part of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's presidential pledge.

The resort was shut down in August 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic. Resort operations had been halted before that.

The resort has 132 villas and was built in Addu Villingili, with work to reopen it having started during former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's (Ibu) administration but was incomplete due to various issues.

However, one of President Muizzu's pledges during the 2023 Presidential Election was to work to reopen the resort, as he had stated to Addu residents during the election campaign.

The announcement to reopen the resort before the end of the year was made in September after the government held discussions with Shangri-La's management.

The Ministry of Tourism stated that the first tourists have been welcomed to the resort upon its reopening. In order to empower its opening, the previous government had agreed to let go of their 30 percent share in the company.

The ministry stated in September that with more than 500 employees having worked at the resort at the time of closing, Addu's economy would see a hike with the resort reopening.

Shangri-La Villingili Resort and Spa Maldives can be reached in around five minutes via speedboat from Addu Gan International Airport.

When the resort first opened, it was renowned as a destination for high-net-worth tourists. During its operation, Shangri-La significantly boosted Addu's economy, leading to a noticeable increase in private jet traffic to Addu.

Work to hire employees had begun in early November in preparation for the reopening. President Muizzu had also visited the resort for assessment purposes.

The Tourism Ministry stated yesterday that the reopening of Shangri-La Resort is a boost to Addu's economy. It is said that Addu residents will see employment opportunities and will revive tourism in the region.