Day: October 15, 2024

Niyama Private Islands Maldives has once again been recognized for its distinctiveness, exclusivity, and relaxed luxury, earning a spot as one of the ‘Best Resorts in the Indian Ocean’ at this year’s Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.

Nestled in the breathtaking beauty of the Maldives, Niyama Private Islands offers a captivating and unique blend of luxury and adventure. Beyond its top-tier accommodations, dining, and spa experiences, the resort provides an otherworldly escape across its twin islands, Chill and Play. Guests can create their own extraordinary experiences, from treetop adventures and underwater parties to ocean thrills like Seabob rides, jetpacking, and surfing.

This award highlights Niyama’s dedication to creating unforgettable experiences through personalized services and thoughtful touches that consistently surpass the expectations of even the most discerning travelers.

General Manager Hafidh Al Busaidy expressed the team’s gratitude, saying, “We are truly honored to receive this recognition from the esteemed readers of Condé Nast Traveler. It reflects our relentless pursuit of excellence and our commitment to offering uniquely crafted experiences to our guests. We thank the readers, our guests, partners, and the Niyama family for their unwavering support, and we promise to continue enhancing every stay, making each one even more memorable than the last.

The Maldivian government has introduced a bill seeking to amend the Tourism Act by eliminating the requirement for the President’s Office to approve the leasing of islands, land, and lagoons for tourism development.

The bill, presented by PNC MP Musthafa Hussein on behalf of the government, was read for the first time in Parliament on Monday, with a debate scheduled for Tuesday.

Currently, the Tourism Act requires approval from the President’s Office for allocating islands, land, and lagoons for tourism. This requirement was introduced through an amendment on July 10, 2016, under Article 5(r)(3).

The proposed amendment aims to remove this approval process, allowing allocations to proceed without the President’s Office’s involvement if the bill is passed.

Under the current law, the tourism ministry must publish a list of islands, land, and lagoons designated for tourism in coordination with the President’s Office, with any changes requiring presidential approval. The new amendment would instead mandate direct consultation with the president.

Furthermore, the bill proposes an increase in the green tax for tourists starting next year. The tax for guesthouses with fewer than 50 rooms would rise from $3 to $6 per day, while the tax for resorts, city hotels, and larger establishments would increase from $6 to $12 per day.

On Monday, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) signed an agreement with Beijing Urban Construction Group (BUCG) for the development of a monorail system linking Malé and K. Funadhoo.

The monorail will serve as a crucial element of the Special Economic and Financial Service Zone initiative.

Originally announced in May by Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed, the project will be funded by the UAE’s International Free Zone Authority (IFZA).

The signing ceremony, held on Monday, was attended by Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, CEO and Managing Director of MACL, and Lu Wei, General Manager of BUCG, who signed on behalf of their respective organizations.

This monorail system will connect Hulhule airport island with Malé and Hulhumale, integrating with the Sinamale Bridge.

The development forms part of a larger Economic Zone Development Project, which includes the establishment of the West Side Commercial Hub and improved connectivity to the main airport.

As part of this initiative, the current seaplane terminal on Hulhule will be relocated to Funadhoo.

The project also includes plans for shopping centres, hotels, convention facilities, and entertainment venues.

President Mohamed Muizzu emphasized the significance of a connected public transport system, such as the monorail, in enhancing travel for passengers, customers, and employees throughout the region.