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Maldives Creates Ministry of Tourism and Environment for a Greener Future

Ministry of Tourism and Environment: New Maldives Ministry

In a bold move to streamline government operations, the government merged the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy with the Ministry of Tourism, creating the new Ministry of Tourism and Environment. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu initiated this restructuring to unite two critical sectors that play pivotal roles in the Maldives’ economy and environmental sustainability.

President Muizzu appointed Thoriq Ibrahim as the new minister. Thoriq assumed his new role after a swearing-in ceremony. He previously served as Minister of Environment and Energy, bringing valuable expertise to this position. In addition, he will balance the Maldives thriving tourism industry with the pressing need to protect and conserve the environment. This remains a crucial priority for a nation facing significant climate challenges.

The merger reduces the number of ministries in the Maldivian government to 19. It opens up exciting opportunities for a unified approach to sustainability and tourism growth. Moreover, President Muizzu discussed the importance of integrating environmental conservation efforts into the tourism sector with Minister Thoriq. This integration aims to boost the Maldives global appeal as a premier eco-friendly destination.

The Maldives tourism industry plays a vital role in the nation’s economy. It contributes the largest share of GDP and foreign exchange earnings. At the same time, the country’s environmental needs remain just as critical. The Maldives is particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels and climate change. The newly combined ministry will ensure that tourism growth aligns with environmental preservation. This is a challenging but necessary task for a country that relies heavily on both its natural beauty and environmental resilience.

Meanwhile, Thoriq Ibrahim draws on his experience in the environment ministry to navigate the complex responsibilities of his new role. He addresses multifaceted issues such as climate negotiations, energy policy, and waste management. These are crucial to securing the Maldives’ long-term environmental health. By combining tourism with environmental governance, the ministry will focus on sustainable tourism practices. It will promote eco-friendly resorts and advocate for responsible resource use to protect the nation’s fragile ecosystems.

The merger brings these sectors under one umbrella. There is optimism that this change will foster collaboration and innovation. The Maldives already enjoys a top spot as a tourist destination, known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and luxury resorts. With this in mind, the government plans to strengthen the Maldives’ reputation as a sustainable tourism destination. This will ensure the beauty of the islands is preserved for future generations.

The formation of the Ministry of Tourism and Environment represents a promising step toward a more integrated approach to economic growth and environmental stewardship. Under Minister Thoriq Ibrahim’s leadership, the Maldives will enhance its global standing as a sustainable, eco-friendly tourist destination. It will also prioritize the protection of its natural environment. As a result, this merger will create a harmonious balance between tourism development and environmental conservation. Ultimately, it will contribute to a brighter and more sustainable future for the Maldives.

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Celebrate Eid Al-Adha with Authentic Maldivian Traditions at Mercure Maldives Kooddoo

Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Hosts Fun Cultural Eid Festivities

This June, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo invites travelers to experience Eid Al-Adha in a way that goes beyond the usual holiday. The adult-only resort has created a special two-day celebration that offers a hands-on look at Maldivian culture through storytelling, traditional crafts, and local flavors. It forms part of their ongoing ‘Discover Local’ program, designed to help guests truly connect with island life.

Learning the Ancient Art of Joali Weaving

One of the standout moments takes place on Saturday, June 7, when guests join a Joali weaving workshop. This craft involves weaving coconut rope into practical items and has been quietly passed down through island families for generations. Since resorts rarely showcase this tradition, this becomes a rare chance for guests to experience a living cultural art.

Mohamed Irshad, the Front Office Manager of Mercue Maldives Kooddoo, shares why it matters:

“We don’t want to just show our guests the Maldives, we want them to feel it through our traditions. Joali weaving is one of those rare crafts that tells the story of resourcefulness, connection to nature, and island life”

Eid Buffet and the Colorful Maali Parade

The celebration starts on the evening of June 6 with an Eid buffet featuring refined takes on local festive dishes. Here, the resort prepares everything using fresh ingredients sourced nearby, celebrating the Maldives’ rich culinary heritage.

Then, the following night, the resort comes alive with the Maali Parade, a lively procession inspired by traditional Maldivian folklore. Masked performers bring ancient stories to life right on the island.

Dining Under the Sun: The Sandbank Picnic Experience

No trip to the Maldives feels complete without a sandbank picnic, and Mercure Maldives Kooddoo offers a particularly memorable version. Set on a tiny, untouched island surrounded by crystal-clear water, guests enjoy an authentic meal served on tropical leaves. This picnic offers a tasting journey into Maldivian flavors, featuring local specialties like:

  • Gulha: Coconut and tuna fritters
  • Kulhi Kaajaa: Spicy tuna bites
  • Bajiya: Pastries filled with sweet and spicy mixes
  • Rihaakuru Kaajaa: Fritters made from rich fish paste
  • Dry Fish: Smoked tuna strips
  • Bodi: Sweet coconut treats with toddy syrup

Along with fresh coconut water, the food makes the meal both refreshing and deeply connected to the island’s culinary traditions.

Year-Round Cultural Experiences with ‘Discover Local’

Although Eid brings special energy to the resort, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo’s cultural offerings continue throughout the year. For instance, the ‘Discover Local’ program invites guests to try their hand at traditional sunset fishing, palm leaf art, and sampling cultural cocktails inspired by island ingredients.

The cocktail menu features creations such as:

  • Maldivian Green: A blend of gin, curry leaf syrup, lemon, and soda water
  • Ocean Breeze: Vodka infused with butterfly pea flower, peach schnapps, pineapple, and coconut syrup
  • Green Kooddoo: Rum mixed with Malibu, pandan leaf juice, pineapple, and coconut syrup
  • Mirus Rita: A spicy twist on the classic margarita using chili-infused Maldivian tequila
  • Coco Kurumba: Whisky combined with tamarind juice, coconut milk, and passion fruit syrup

These drinks add an extra layer to the island experience and let guests taste Maldivian flavors in a completely new way.

More Than a Vacation: A Cultural Journey

If you visit for Eid or explore Maldivian culture at any time, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo offers more than a stay. In fact, the resort invites guests to experience the Maldives as a vibrant, living culture, full of stories, flavors, and traditions that stay with you long after the trip ends.

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