Govt to take action against Kihaa Maldives for non-compliance

The Ministry of Tourism and Environment has announced that Kihaadhuffaru in Baa Atoll, known as Kihaa Maldives, operated by Athama Marine International Private Limited, has been found in breach of the Maldives Tourism Act and has failed to meet the minimum operating standards required by the Ministry.

In an announcement gazetted on Thursday, the Ministry stated: “The resort has also failed to maintain the minimum standards stipulated by the Ministry. The company’s license to operate the resort was granted under specific conditions and was only extended until 27 September 2024.”

“Given this breach, the Ministry is taking further legal measures, in coordination with the relevant authorities, to put an end to the non-compliance activities at the facility. Therefore, the Ministry urges all related parties to find alternative options for their existing and new bookings.”

Kihaa Maldives, located in Baa Atoll near Hanifaru Bay, is a 124-villa island resort popular for its proximity to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, an internationally recognised site famed for manta ray and whale shark congregations. The resort has traditionally positioned itself as a mid-to-upscale property offering beachfront and overwater accommodation, diving experiences, and access to the atoll’s marine biodiversity.

The property is operated by Athama Marine International Pvt Ltd, a Maldivian-owned company involved in resort and tourism operations. Over the years, Kihaa Maldives has undergone several management changes.