Azure blue waters mirroring a clear sky, powdery white sand caressing the shores, and palm trees swaying in the distance - this idyllic postcard of the Maldives is familiar to us all. However, this island nation's radiant charm was once dimmed by its image as an affordable vacation destination. That was until Ahmed Adeeb initiated a transformative strategy. "In 2012, upon becoming Minister of Tourism, I crafted a comprehensive plan to unveil the Maldives, expand its airspace, and establish it as the pinnacle of luxury resort destinations," Adeeb recounts. To realize this vision, he extended invitations to numerous prominent investors and brands to tap into the Maldives' potential. "Initially, we had only 99 resorts; now we boast around 167, featuring some of the most renowned brands. Our unique 'one island, one resort' model ensures tourist privacy and lucrative returns for investors," he elaborates.
This significant transformation in reputation and the consequent increase in visitor numbers led the Maldivian people to affectionately dub him 'The Man Behind the Maldives.' Adeeb reflects on this moniker with a smile. "At a young age, I assumed the role of Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture. I spearheaded numerous changes and partnerships with various entities on investments and with the youth of the Maldives. Hence, this title emerged. 'The Man Behind the Maldives' signifies the swift changes I introduced to the nation," he explains. "I constructed a bridge with China and achieved numerous milestones in a brief span - from 2012 to the present, most major developments were under my purview."
Adeeb's development approach was influenced by the UAE. "In Dubai, I observed extensive island dredging for bespoke designs. We possessed numerous lagoons, but regulatory frameworks were necessary for development. I enacted reforms that enabled us to lease lagoons and develop multiple islands. Initially met with criticism, 14 years on, we've attracted substantial investments as major brands and investors sought to design their own islands," he details. He emphasizes that all developments in the Maldives are sustainable. "We relocate corals prior to sand addition and restore them afterward. This process is highly sustainable. A $4 tax per bed per night funds the green initiative. We also host brands like Damac from the UAE, each with their own islands."
Adeeb also pioneered long-term leases for villas in the Maldives. "I revised strategies to provide greater incentives, such as duty-free construction materials and direct material transport to construction sites to expedite development." He believes the Indian Ocean archipelago holds vast potential. "We have 1,200 islands, with only 200 inhabited and another 200 resort-designated. Yet, numerous untouched islands remain, brimming with potential for the Maldives." This is why 'The Man Behind the Maldives' is currently in the UAE. "I'm in Dubai offering advisory services to investors keen on the Maldives. With my background as a business consultant and network, I aim to channel substantial investments to bolster the Maldives economy. Previously based in Singapore and Thailand, I now advise many investors entering the Middle East, particularly Dubai and the UAE," says the former Vice-President of the Maldives.
Adeeb cites the UAE as a source of inspiration. "I've always admired the GCC, especially the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The developments in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, influencing the Maldives' presence in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and the Red Sea development, are significant inspirations. I'm here to learn and contribute more. I see immense potential between our regions and nations," he concludes.
