An IMGW News Report
The Government of the Maldives has signed a landmark agreement with Henley & Partners, the international advisory firm specialising in investment migration, to establish the country’s first residence by investment programme. The collaboration forms part of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s Vision 2040, which seeks to transform the island nation into a more diversified and resilient economy.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Maldives–Singapore Business Forum 2025 in Sentosa, Singapore, Mohamed Saeed, Minister of Economic Development and Trade, said:
“The Maldives has long been synonymous with world-class hospitality. With this initiative, we aim to extend that reputation to global investors who recognise the promise of our people and our future. Partnering with Henley & Partners demonstrates our determination to engage credible international expertise to deliver on Vision 2040.”
Renowned as a luxury destination, the Maldives offers 1,190 coral islands strung across 27 atolls, scattered over some 90,000 square kilometres of the Indian Ocean. The archipelago has become a magnet for affluent travellers seeking seclusion and pristine beaches.
A Small Nation with Ambitions to Match
Home to about 521,000 people, the Maldives has come a long way since independence in 1965. The economy, once centred on fishing, now depends heavily on tourism, which accounts for more than a quarter of GDP and roughly 60% of foreign exchange earnings. Per capita income has risen from around USD 9,500 in 2019 to over USD 13,000 in 2024 – a figure that comfortably outpaces South Asian peers such as Sri Lanka and India.
Yet by developed-world standards, the country remains relatively modest in economic terms: Japan’s per capita GDP exceeds USD 40,000, and most European economies fall between USD 30,000 and USD 60,000. Despite the Maldives’ reputation for luxury, many citizens still rely on fisheries and small-scale services, with persistent inequalities and vulnerability to external shocks. Unemployment hovers around 5.4%, and the nation’s Human Development Index stands at 0.747, the highest in South Asia but well below Western levels.
Diversification through Investment Migration
Philippe Amarante, Managing Partner and Head of Government Advisory EMEA at Henley & Partners, told guests attending the signing ceremony that the new programme would harness the country’s appeal as a safe haven for wealth and lifestyle migration.
“The residence by investment programme will offer exceptional properties and the utmost privacy. As a stable and peaceful nation, the Maldives provides an effective hedge against geopolitical risks and health crises, alongside an enviable quality of life.”
Officials believe the programme could help reduce the economy’s dependence on tourism receipts alone. Encouraging foreign investment in real estate, infrastructure and services is seen as an important step towards broadening the tax base and generating employment. Real estate acquisitions by affluent investors often serve as a gateway to deeper economic engagement over time.
Minister Saeed noted that the decision to work with Henley & Partners was based on the firm’s experience managing similar programmes worldwide.
“Together, we are conducting a thorough assessment to ensure this initiative aligns with national priorities, supports sustainable development and upholds the integrity of our institutions.”
Mr Amarante added:
“Henley & Partners remains committed to designing programmes that balance rigorous compliance with transparent administration and social responsibility. Globally, we see investment migration evolving into a well-regulated mechanism to channel capital and talent into long-term development.”
Due Diligence and Oversight
Both parties emphasised that robust safeguards would be central to the programme’s credibility. Applications will be subject to comprehensive due diligence to ensure only reputable investors qualify. Final decisions on visas and residency rights will remain under the sovereign discretion of the Maldivian authorities.
Drawing on decades of experience and over USD 15 billion in foreign direct investment raised through its government advisory practice, Henley & Partners will assist in developing a framework that links residency to high-quality real estate investment.
Mr Amarante concluded:
“Real estate-linked migration offers more than property ownership. It delivers optionality, security and diversification at a time when volatility is the new normal. Premium developments can generate strong rental yields, attractive resale prospects and tax benefits, while enhancing mobility and quality of life. With its combination of natural beauty and strategic foresight, the Maldives is well placed to secure fresh sources of capital without compromising its unique heritage.”
