Shangri-La reopened in name only; no bookings available on any global platform: MP Didi
21 އޮކްޓޯބަރު 2026 | ބުދަ 15:25Maradhoo MP Ahmed Didi has criticized the reopening of Shangri-La Villingili Resort in Addu City as a mere formality, claiming the facility remains non-operational and offers no actual services. He noted that while the government may have pressured investors into a symbolic opening, the resort remains unavailable on all booking platforms, ensuring that the people of Addu continue to see no economic benefit from the property.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu inspects ongoing preparations to reopen Shangri-La Resort. | Social Media
The Member of Parliament for the Maradhoo constituency, Ahmed Didi, has stated that the reopening of Shangri-La Villingili Resort & Spa is merely symbolic, noting that the property remains unavailable for reservations on any global booking platform.
Shangri-La Villingili Resort & Spa is a premier five-star luxury destination located on the island of Villingili in Addu Atoll, the southernmost tip of the Maldives. After a closure spanning more than five years following the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the resort officially reopened its doors on December 30, 2025.
Speaking on RaajjeTV’s "Vaudhunaama" program, MP Didi stated that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu had pledged to reopen Shangri-La Resort on November 31, 2025, during a visit to Addu City. MP Didi further alleged that the government’s efforts to reopen the resort involved legislative changes and coercive tactics against the company.
Member Didi stated that although Shangri-La has officially reopened, it is currently not providing any services.
They managed to open the resort by amending laws and intimidating the investor or management company with threats of expulsion if they failed to do so. However, the opening was merely symbolic—a sign on the board that says "Open." The property remains unavailable on any global booking platform, and it is impossible to make a reservation anywhere. With no staff currently on-site, how can this truly be considered an operational opening?Member Didi
MP Didi noted that the government claims the facility will open on December 31 of this year, despite it having been officially opened previously. He strongly criticized the administration, stating that announcing the reopening of a site for which the Ministry of Tourism had already issued prior press releases highlights a significant disconnect between the government's rhetoric and its actions.
During his 2023 presidential campaign, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu met with the residents of Addu City and pledged to reopen the resort. He assured the community that fulfilling this commitment would be a priority during his administration.
However, the residents of Addu City continue to express their concerns, as they have yet to see any tangible benefits from the resort to date.
