New Permit Proposal to Modernise 16,000 Mauritian Non-Hotel Rental Units

The short-term rental market has emerged as a dominant force in Mauritian tourism, with seasonal accommodations now boasting a larger capacity than the island’s traditional hotel industry.

Figures released at the Association of Seasonal Rental Actors in Mauritius (AALSIM) general meeting reveal that the “para-hotel” sector now manages an estimated 20,000 rooms.

This segment generates a direct annual economic impact of approximately MUR 20 billion, with between 25% and 50% of all tourists now opting for non-hotel stays.

A Structural Shift

AALSIM President Mathieu Appassamy declared the sector a “structural pillar” of the nation’s tourism model.

Data from the latest Axys Hospitality Industry Report supports this, noting that guests in non-hotel accommodations tend to stay longer, fostering economic resilience and inclusivity.

Unlike traditional models that often see revenue captured by international chains, the rental market is credited with “irrigating” the local economy.

By diffusing spending through a network of SMEs, independent transport providers, and local restaurants, the sector creates thousands of jobs across the island.

Government Pledges Radical Reform

In attendance at the meeting, Deputy Tourism Minister Sydney Pierre acknowledged the sector’s growth, citing official figures of 16,000 non-hotel rooms out of a national total of 30,000.

He highlighted a global shift toward traveler autonomy and privacy, prompting a need for administrative modernization.

To support this transition, the Minister proposed:

• 24-hour permit delivery to slash administrative red tape.
• Provisional permits and clear categorisation for different rental types.
• Fiscal equity and agile registration systems to replace rigid licensing.

While pushing for simplification, Mr Pierre emphasised that visitor safety remains “non-negotiable” in this new hybrid landscape.

New Leadership and Professionalisation

To spearhead these changes, AALSIM has formalised its permanent structure. Daren Moodely, formerly of the Tourism Authority and AHRIM, has been appointed as Director General.

His mandate includes channeling member needs and structuring sector data to better coordinate with authorities.

The newly elected executive committee for 2026 includes:

• President: Mathieu Appassamy (Rental Manager)
• Vice-President: Isabelle Descroizilles (Rental Manager)
• Secretary: Aliocha Schaub (Rental Manager)
• Treasurer: Alexandre Hardy (Rental Manager)
• Independent Operators: Gary Toulcanon and Radha Rengasamy.

Call to Operators

The association is now urging all independent owners and agencies to join the movement.

Membership aims to ensure operators are officially “recognised” by national bodies such as the MTPA and Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA), while benefiting from certified quality standards.

With its permanent office now established, AALSIM intends to position itself as an essential partner in the tourism ecosystem by 2026.

Source: Le Mauricien