The GDh. Thinadhoo City Council has presented a list of 55 islands in Huvadhu Atoll to the government, stating that they believe these islands are highly suitable for resort development. 

Thinadhoo City Mayor Saudh Ali stated that economic activity in Gaafu Alif and Gaafu Dhaalu atolls need to be advanced to new levels. He expressed his belief that tourism could be a major contributor to these efforts. 

With this in mind, the council has selected the most suitable 55 islands from Huvadhu Atoll, which has the highest number of uninhabited islands in the country, and proposed to the government that resorts be developed there, Saudh said. 

The authority to designate islands for tourism development is held by the President. If the President decides to develop resorts in the proposed islands, the Tourism Ministry can issue an announcement seeking developers. 

"Huvadhu Atoll actually has a bigger advantage compared to other atolls in the country when it comes to tourism. This is where there are the most number of uninhabited islands and lagoons. It is naturally well-suited," Saudh said. 

At present, nine resorts are operated across GA and GDh atolls. As per the Tourism Ministry website, there are currently 175 resorts registered in the Maldives.