HDC unveils the ambitious integrated urban tourism project- The Urban Isle
December 24, 2022
Diversifying from the Maldives’ exclusive one island one hotel concept, Housing Development Corporation Limited (HDC) has unveiled its aspiring and visionary integrated urban tourism project- the Urban Isle. The Corporation’s Managing Director Mr. Ahmed Athif launched the mega project at the Corporate Maldives Gold 100 GALA event held at Crossroads on 29th November 2022. Urban Isle is the designated tourism island of Hulhumale located at the northern end of the city. Sited strategically at the center of the Maldivian archipelago, the Urban Isle will be complemented by a number of existing and upcoming urban tourism attractions within the Hulhumale city as well as Male.
Measuring 23 hectares, the spectacular island will offer a wide range of accommodation options, attracting a vast pool of travelers fitting to every visitor profile. The diverse mix of properties are positioned to offer something for everyone, catering to any duration of stay, including those who seek short-term stays for transit purposes, business tourists as well as long-term stays and digital nomads. Properties within Urban Isle include luxury villas, serviced apartments, city hotels mid and upscale hotels, and guesthouses complemented by branded retail and dining outlets.
With this wide range of properties and developments, Urban Isle offers a golden opportunity to both local and foreign investors. The physical connectivity to Hulhumale, Velaanaa International Airport and Male, combined with the already established infrastructure within the island by HDC gives added benefits to investors. An island-wide utility network, a smart infrastructure built with an Open Access Network, and a key focus on environmental sustainability are all underway. Meanwhile, HDC is having a very flexible approach in seeking investments. While there are some proposed business models such as the lease model, and JV model, investors are welcome to submit proposals with any business model.
The project’s close proximity and connectivity to the greater Male region will definitely give a boost to the local economy. Apart from the project being a great door to expand business for new and growing local hoteliers and real estate developers, the local SMEs of all sectors ranging from local shops, restaurants, and other businesses can gain direct benefits. The existing guest houses in the city will also complemented by the added tourism services and facilities including commercial, F&B, entertainment, sports and recreation, etc., that will come within the Urban Isle.
Further, the mobilization of this integrated tourism concept will bring a ripple effect in the economy, creating a significant number of employment opportunities. Additionally, the easy accessibility to the Urban Isle will reduce the gender disparity among tourism sector workers, as it would create a convenient and hassle-free environment for more females to work in the sector.
Truly Urban Isle is set to change the tourism landscape of the Maldives with the diversified and enriched approach, improve the local economy, and provide the most fulfilling visitor experience.
