Yameen criticises govt's halal tourism policy
He further stated that halal tourism, as a concept, lacks clarity in terms of services and facilities.
Former President Abdulla Yameen has criticised the government’s decision to introduce halal tourism in the Maldives, particularly the inclusion of Hankede in Addu City among the locations designated for development under the concept.
Speaking at a rally organised by the People’s National Front (PNF) Sunday evening, Yameen expressed concern that Hankede, which has been linked to long-standing efforts to boost tourism in Addu, was being placed under a tourism model that, according to him, lacks clear viability and public support.
He questioned the decision to brand tourism as "halal," suggesting that it implies existing tourism practices in the country are incompatible with Islamic principles. “By introducing halal tourism, the government is indirectly labelling current tourism as haram. This raises unnecessary questions and creates confusion,” he said.
Yameen also criticised what he described as the government’s attempt to frame halal tourism as a religiously compliant alternative without addressing broader concerns. He argued that the move may be intended to appease religious scholars rather than address genuine tourism development needs.
He further stated that halal tourism, as a concept, lacks clarity in terms of services and facilities. “There is no guarantee on space or services. There are no bars, no tips, and no aspects that many tourists seek. Tourists do not come only for the beach—they come for experiences,” he said.
While acknowledging that some elements of the tourism sector are not in line with Islamic values, Yameen said Maldivians are not directly involved in those services, and therefore, the existing model is not in conflict with local beliefs.
He was particularly critical of the lack of consultation with residents in Addu regarding the decision. “There was no effort to ask the people of Addu whether they support the idea. It is being introduced without testing or consideration,” he said.
Yameen questioned why halal tourism could not be introduced in other regions such as South Ari Atoll and Kaafu Atoll, where existing tourism models already operate. He said a balanced approach would involve locating halal tourism in areas without pre-existing tourism frameworks, rather than shifting expectations in places like Addu.
The government has announced that six regions across the country will be allocated for halal tourism, including Hankede. Yameen noted that he had engaged with multiple administrations since 2005 in efforts to advance the Hankede project, but development has yet to progress.
