Tourism Minister Thoriq Ibrahim has confirmed that Shangri-La Villingili Resort, once a cornerstone of Addu City’s tourism economy, will reopen before the end of this year.

The luxury resort, the first of its kind to open in Addu, has remained closed since 2020, when operations were suspended at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Its prolonged closure has been a major concern for the residents of Addu, the country’s most populous city after the capital, Malé.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday morning, Minister Thoriq said the decision to reopen followed extensive discussions between the government and the resort’s management.

A team from the Tourism Ministry is currently conducting a full assessment of the resort’s villas and facilities.

Minister noted that the resort is very well-maintained and a lot of the facilities and rooms are in excellent condition, adding that the remaining renovations will be completed within the next three months.

Thoriq highlighted that the reopening is expected to create new job opportunities and significantly boost tourism in southern Maldives.

However, he acknowledged that connectivity and transport remain the biggest challenges in ensuring smooth operations, and assured that the government is working with Maldivian to enhance airport facilities.

At the time of its closure in 2020, the resort employed 580 staff.

The decision to reopen fulfills one of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s campaign pledges to revive Shangri-La Villingili as part of his broader commitment to strengthening the southern economy.