In a major development following The Standard Maldives’ investigative exposé, the Ministry of Tourism and Environment has now publicly confirmed that Kihaa Maldives (B. Kihaadhuffaru) is operating in direct violation of the Maldives Tourism Act (No. 2/99) and has failed to meet the minimum operational standards required of a licensed resort.
According to an official announcement published in the Government Gazette on 28 August 2025, the resort’s operating licence—issued to Athama Marine International Private Limited—was only valid until 27 September 2024. Despite this, the resort has continued operations unlawfully, bypassing critical tourism regulations, including tax compliance, licensing conditions, and guest safety standards.
“Given this breach, the Ministry is taking further legal measures, in coordination with relevant authorities, to put an end to the non-compliance activities at the facility” the statement reads.
Registered But Rogue
Although the business is formally registered under the Ministry of Economic Development—with shareholders listed as Ibrahim Abdul Latheef (Athamaage, K. Malé) and Ali Ahrush Ibrahim (M. Meadows, K. Malé)—the facility is not included in the Ministry of Tourism’s official registry of licensed resorts.
The Standard Maldives earlier revealed that the luxury resort, operating in the protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Hanifaru Bay, was collecting guest revenue while avoiding all mandatory tourism taxes, including TGST, Green Tax, and other government dues.
Guests Urged to Cancel Bookings
In an unprecedented move, the Ministry has publicly urged all tour operators, travel agencies, and booking platforms to cease all cooperation with Kihaa Maldives, and for guests with existing or new reservations to “find alternative options.”
This public directive underscores the seriousness of the breach—and the government’s intent to shut down unlicensed operations that jeopardize not only national tax revenues but also the Maldives’ international image as a well-regulated tourism destination.
Accountability Now Demanded
This case, now confirmed by the government, raises urgent questions:
- How was the resort allowed to operate for nearly a year after its licence lapsed?
- Why were public enforcement actions delayed despite repeated complaints?
- Who else in the system failed to act?
With legal action now underway, The Standard Maldives will continue to monitor this case—and pursue further leads to expose systemic failures that allow such operations to persist.
🔎 This is a developing story. If you have insider information, confidential tips, or evidence related to illegal tourism operations in the Maldives, contact our team anonymously at [email protected]
