Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen has said today that the government is owed USD 97 million in resort rents and fines arrears. He stated that the ministry is working on recovering these funds as promptly as possible. 

In a press conference held at the President's Office today, Minister Ameen said that while addressing resorts' failure to pay rent, it is equally important to recognize that many operators comply with laws and pay their taxes and rent on time. He added that it remains a serious concern that the actions of a few have prevented the government from receiving funds it is owed. 

Resorts that have failed to pay rent include some currently in operation, as well as some who have been shut down for various reasons without authorization from the ministry. 

"We have had some positive developments as well. A system has been set up under which we take action against such parties, and we are in discussions with them and working on recovering the funds," Ameen explained. 

Some resorts have failed to pay rent from as far back as 2013, the minister revealed. He asserted that as the ministry works on recovering these arrears, necessary action will also be taken against such companies.