This change fulfils President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's pledge to promote local tourism and expand economic opportunities for the community.
SunOnline International
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has designated Uthuru Athafaru (RF 1218) as part of ADh. Hangnaameedhoo, fulfilling his pledge to promote local tourism and expand economic opportunities for the community.
The change was formalised through Presidential Decree No. 29/2025, amending Presidential Decree No. 2/2025 (dated 5 February 2025), which outlines the inhabited islands of the Maldives. The amendment was made under the authority of the Decentralisation Act (Law No. 7/2010), and the updated list of inhabited islands has been published in the Government Gazette accordingly.
Speaking to the residents of the island, the president also announced that Alikoe Rah will be developed as a special island for tourist excursions under the Ministry of Tourism and Environment.
The President assured that Alikoe Rah will not be leased to any external party and will remain designated as a special excursion island. While the island will be developed and maintained by the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, it will remain accessible to guesthouse operators from Hangnaameedhoo and neighbouring islands, in accordance with established guidelines.
In addition, President Dr Muizzu announced that a coastal protection project, together with the establishment of a boatyard area, will commence as a single integrated initiative in response to the priorities of the island’s residents. He further assured that development projects not initiated this year will be included in next year’s budget.
