Invitation for Bids - Drone Surveying of Noonu Atoll Islands

The Noonu Atoll Administration is initiating a comprehensive Drone Surveying Project to map and geotag all inhabited and uninhabited islands, lagoons, sandbanks, and reef systems within Noonu Atoll. Encompassing approximately 13 inhabited and 15 uninhabited islands with 1076 hectares of dry land and 2369 hectares of reef systems, this initiative supports sustainable development, marine conservation, agricultural planning, and environmental monitoring. Participants are invited to showcase their expertise in drone-based geospatial documentation to deliver high-resolution data that will contribute to resilient development and informed governance.

The scope of this project includes RTK-drone surveying, precise geotagging, and the generation of comprehensive data products such as orthophotos and other GIS-compatible datasets. The success of this project will hinge upon the integration of accurate data to guide tourism zoning, conservation efforts, and development planning.

Detailed Scope of Work

Participants will be required to complete the following tasks:

1. Drone Surveying

Conduct drone-based surveys of all uninhabited islands, surrounding reefs, lagoons, and sandbanks within the Noonu Atoll region.

2. Geotagging and Mapping

Digitally geotag and map all natural features, including reef zones, sandbanks, lagoon systems, and terrestrial ecosystems, to generate GIS-compatible datasets.

3. High-Resolution Data Products

• Create high-resolution orthophotos of the surveyed areas.

  • Develop 3D models of natural features to provide detailed spatial data.

  • Compile georeferenced maps for further analysis and application.

4. Data Integration

Provide actionable insights and support with data integration for agriculture, tourism zoning, environmental planning, and protected area designations.

5. Information Classification

Identify and classify reef zones, sandbank formations, vegetation and lagoon systems to support effective preservation and sustainable usage.

This project aims to empower decision-making through precise geospatial insights, enabling balanced development while conserving the atoll’s unique ecological and cultural resources.

Key Deliverables

Selected participants will be expected to submit the following outputs:

• Complete sets of drone-captured aerial imagery with RTK-drone from all targeted locations.

• Georeferenced maps and shapefiles detailing islands, reefs, sandbanks, vegetation and lagoon systems.

• A comprehensive digital atlas of the surveyed areas, with layered classifications for various natural features.

• A summary report comprising management or development recommendations based on the data collected.

Each deliverable must comply with the highest accuracy standards, ensuring compatibility for GIS and environmental planning applications.

Project Timeline

Below is the project timeline, including key milestones and deadlines:

• Registration Opens: 10 July 2025, 14:00 hrs.

• Registration Closes: 15 July 2025, 13:00 hrs.

• Information Session (via Microsoft Teams): 17 July 2025, 14:00 hrs.

• Queries Close: 20 July 2025, 13:00 hrs.

• Proposal Submission Deadline: 23 July 2025, 14:00 hrs.

• Contract Award Date: 29 July 2025

Upon contract award, all surveying tasks must be completed within 90 days, with an additional 15 days allocated for data processing and submission of final reports.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Price (80%)

Competitive pricing will yield higher scores, with due consideration given to cost-effectiveness alongside quality delivery.

• Experience (20%)

Participants with demonstrable expertise in drone surveying, particularly within coastal or island environments, will receive stronger evaluations. Evidence of successfully completed similar projects will be advantageous.

Participants are encouraged to highlight innovative methodologies, equipment capabilities, and project experience to support their proposal.

Submission Instructions

Interested service providers must adhere to the following submission process:

1. Registration

Submit an Expression of Interest by completing the mandatory registration via the designated registration link by the specified deadline. Only registered parties will be allowed to attend the mandatory information session.

2. Required Documents

The proposal package must include:

• A detailed proposal and price quotation.

  • Proof of business registration and tax clearance.

  • A portfolio showcasing similar completed projects.

  • Equipment specifications and descriptions.

  • CVs of key personnel, highlighting relevant expertise.

3. Proposal Submission

Complete proposals must be submitted no later than 23 July 2025, 14:00 hrs. Late submissions will not be considered.

4. Contact Information

For queries or additional information, please use the contact details below:

• Email: hello@noonunaturally.com

The Noonu Atoll Administration welcomes your participation in this collaborative initiative, as we chart the path towards sustainable development and environmental stewardship for our unique and precious atoll.