DEVELOPMENT OF THE ULIGAN MARINA PROJECT

   31st July 2024

Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has received an Expression of Interest (EOI) concerning the development and financing of the "Uligan Marina Project" ('the Project'). To ensure a fair and competitive opportunity for all prospective parties, MPL invites interested proponents to submit Expressions of Interest (EOI) for this Project.

About the Project

The Uligan Marina project is a planned development featuring a marina and cruise terminal near the northern tip of the Maldives, strategically located near one of the busiest maritime routes for leisure travellers and world trade. This project aims to cater to seafaring yachts and leisure crafts with amenities such as state-of-the-art vessel docking and berthing facilities, serving as an entry gateway to the Maldives. Additionally, it plans to include a cruise terminal, resorts, and city hotels. This development aims to enhance maritime infrastructure, boost tourism, and stimulate the local economy, thereby establishing the Maldives as a premier destination for yachts and cruise ships.

Project Components

Proponents shall submit an EOI to develop a Yacht Marina Component (compulsory) and may additionally include one or more of the following Project Components—applied singly or as part of a multi-component application, consisting of one or more business entities (e.g., a consortium). Each component entails a different set of capital investments and project activities. Primarily, the marine infrastructure development and related marina infrastructure will precede the superstructure development such as passenger terminals, city hotels and café restaurant components.

 The Components are outlined below:

1. Yacht Marina (Compulsory Component)

2. Cruise Terminal

3. Vessel Docking Facility

4. Uligan Port Facility (ISPS Gate)

5. City Hotel(s)

6. Cafés and Restaurants

Features and Specifications

(Indicative, to be determined during final design specifications)

 1. Berth: 102m.

 2. Sizes: From 5 to 120 metres.

3. Draft: Minimum 4 metres at low tide.

4. Mast height restrictions: None.

 5. Utilities: Power, Water, Fuel. 

Marine Infrastructure Development Pathways

Breakwater / Seawall: The construction of breakwaters or seawalls is essential for protecting the marina from strong wave actions and ensuring calm waters within the docking area. These structures are critical in minimizing erosion and providing a safe environment for vessels. The development typically involves significant cost implications due to the need for durable materials, sophisticated engineering design, and specialized construction techniques. Breakwaters and seawalls serve as the first line of defence against harsh marine conditions, ensuring the longevity and safety of the marina facilities.

Cruise Terminal / Breakwater: For accommodating cruise vessels, the development of a cruise terminal in conjunction with breakwater structures is crucial. This involves significant maritime infrastructure requirements, including the use of innovative mooring systems to secure large vessels. The implementation of advanced mooring technology is encouraged to enhance efficiency and safety. A fully-fledged quay wall may or may not be required, depending on the specific design and operational needs of the terminal. The cost implications are considerable, encompassing high-grade construction materials, extensive engineering expertise, and the incorporation of cutting-edge maritime technologies to ensure the terminal's operational effectiveness and durability.

Preferred Business Models

While the preferred business models for this Project are the EPC+F model, proponents are not restricted to these models. Irrespective of the model proposed, the benefits to both MPL and the proponent should be clearly outlined.

Rights of MPL

MPL reserves the right to accept or reject any proposal and to annul the EOI process at any stage prior to the signing of the framework agreement, without incurring any liability to the proponents. In the event of annulment, all proponents will be duly informed.

Submission Requirements

Please note that only legally registered business entities in the Maldives and legally registered entities abroad, excluding sole-proprietorships and those without requisite experience in similar projects, are eligible to respond to this EOI.

All applicants must submit the completed form ‘1-2 Letter of Expression of Interest’ attached with this document.

Proponents may electively submit any additional documents to strengthen, support, and substantiate their claims in terms of experience, financial capabilities, and technical capabilities.

Additional Information

Interested parties may request additional information and submit queries via the email provided below. The completed EOI should be submitted via email to the address provided, no later than 16:00 hours on 12^th August 2024.

Contact Information

Email for submission and queries: [email protected]