Malta’s May 19: New Dive Sites, Tech Hub & Cottonera Revamp
As the sun rose over the Grandmaster’s Palace on a crisp May morning, Malta woke up to a flurry of announcements that promised to shape the island’s future in more ways than one. From the bustling streets of Valletta to the quaint villages of Gozo, here’s what you need to know about the key developments that unfolded on May 19, 2026.
Eco-Tourism Gets a Boost: New Dive Sites in Gozo
In a move that’s sure to delight scuba enthusiasts and eco-tourism advocates alike, the Ministry of Gozo announced the designation of three new dive sites around the sister island. The sites, located off the coasts of Xlendi, Marsalforn, and Xaghra, are home to a rich array of marine life and stunning underwater landscapes. The new sites will join the existing 40+ dive spots in Gozo, further cementing the island’s status as a world-class diving destination.
Local dive centre owner, Joe Borg, welcomed the news, “This is fantastic for Gozo. We’ve been pushing for more dive sites for years, and these new locations will not only attract more divers but also help preserve our marine heritage.”
Malta’s Tech Scene: A New Startup Hub in Birkirkara
The Malta Investment Management Company (MIMCO) unveiled plans to transform a disused industrial site in Birkirkara into a state-of-the-art startup hub. The project, dubbed ‘Innovation Square’, will provide co-working spaces, incubation programmes, and investment opportunities for budding entrepreneurs. The hub is set to open its doors in late 2027 and is expected to create over 500 jobs in the tech sector.
MIMCO CEO, Maria Mifsud, said, “Innovation Square is more than just a building. It’s a community where ideas can grow, collaborations can flourish, and Malta’s tech scene can truly thrive.”
Cultural Preservation Meets Innovation: The Cottonera Project
The three cities of Cottonera – Bormla, Birgu, and Isla – are set for a major facelift, thanks to a €20 million EU-funded project. The Cottonera Regeneration Project aims to restore and revitalise the historic urban fabric while introducing smart city technologies to enhance the quality of life for residents. The project will see the restoration of historic buildings, the creation of new public spaces, and the implementation of innovative solutions like smart waste management and renewable energy systems.
Birgu Local Council Mayor, Ray Bondin, expressed his excitement about the project, “This is a breakthrough for Cottonera. We’re preserving our rich history while embracing the future, and that’s a win-win for our communities.”
