President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu today officiated the groundbreaking of Project AYLA, the first sustainable township licensed to be developed under the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) framework. The ceremony, held in Noonu Atoll, was attended by cabinet ministers, members of parliament of the Noonu constituency, diplomatic representatives, and the leadership of Crystal Holdings Pvt Ltd and BluRock Group, the project’s principal investors and developers.
President Muizzu Officiates Groundbreaking of the First Sustainable Township under the SEZ Framework
Government Signs Investment Agreement for Maldives’ First ‘Sustainable Township’ Development under the SEZ Framework
The Government of Maldives has today signed the Investment Agreement with Crystal Holdings Private Limited for the development of Ayla Sustainable Township, marking the final formal step envisaged under the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Act for the implementation of the project.
Government Issues the Permit for Sustainable Township Development under the Special Economic Zones Act
The Government, through the Board of Investments, has issued the country’s first Permit for a Sustainable Township to Crystal Holdings Private Limited on 9th December 2025. With an investment of over USD 790 million, the project will feature integrated tourism and residential facilities alongside an international hospitality school, state-of-the-art healthcare facility, and dedicated agriculture and aquaculture zones. At least 60% of the township’s energy will be generated from renewable sources.
Discover Maldives:
Where lucrative opportunities meets unparalleled beauty. As the world’s leading luxury tourist destination, our thriving tourism sector has a stellar reputation for success, attracting visitors from across the globe. Our strategic geographic location on major global shipping routes, offers direct access to key markets in Asia and beyond, making us the ideal destination for investments in international trade and commerce.
With numerous strategic opportunities for investors to explore, the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) regime in the Maldives provides unique advantages for those looking for a profitable venture. Our investor-friendly policies, inclusive of tax incentives and seamless business services, positions Maldives as an attractive business environment for investors to explore. Discover the limitless opportunities that the Maldives has to offer.
Guided by the leadership of His Excellency President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, the Maldives intends to fully capitalize on the SEZ framework to transform the socioeconomic landscape of the country.
The Government's commitment to private sector partnerships, political stability, and a competitive legislative regime governing trade and investment, ensures a secure and efficient environment for business operations.
Maldives also benefits from a skilled and youthful workforce, making it ideal for diverse investment opportunities. With strong legal protections and a focus on sustainable practices, the Maldives stands as a destination primed for diverse investments that promises growth and lucrative returns.
Opportunities
The Government invites potential investors to explore the diverse investment opportunities that the SEZ regime has to offer, through the nine strategic investment areas identified under Presidential Decree.
