Gaafu Dhaalu atoll Fiyori's Council has decided to lease over 429,000 square feet of land from Kaalhehutta, a neighboring island which falls under Fiyori's jurisdiction, to develop a tourism zone.
The island's council announced that bidding for interested parties was now open to lease the plot on a 50-year lease for tourism development.
Fiyori's council said that the leased plot measures a total of 429,480 square feet. The lowest bidding price is MVR 0.50 per square-foot. Council added that the plot will be leased wholly.
Interested proponents are required to submit bid registration forms before November 16, and bid submission and opening is scheduled for November 30 at the council's premises.
Fiyori Council's President Faizar Rasheed said Kaalhehuttaa was the closest out of the three uninhabited islands neighboring, and under the jurisdiction of Fiyori. He added the island's land use plan includes leasing plots for tourism and agriculture.
From the total 9.5 hectares of the island, 5.6 hectares was leased for organic farming earlier in 2023 according to Faizar.
"We are leasing the remaining four hectares for tourism development," he said.
"We opened this opportunity since several parties have already expressed interested on the area, so we decided to open the bidding for the best proposal in adherence to the policy for it."
The council president said introduction of tourism in the island will create employment opportunities and drive up Fiyori's economy.
While Fiyori's diving and surfing points are already popular destinations among travelers, Faizar believes the area is ideal for increased tourism activities due to the rich marine biodiversity in the area, including mantas.
He highlighted the opening of domestic airport on the neighboring Faresmaathoda enhancing transportation to the region.
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