Male’, Maldives, 8th March 2024 – The Minister of Tourism for the Maldives, Ibrahim Faisal, reaffirmed the nation’s dedication to diversifying the tourism sector to enhance visitors’ travel experiences and ensure a sustainable future for our islands. He delivered this message as the Guest of Honour at the Maldives Media Meet press conference, hosted by the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC / Visit Maldives) during ITB Berlin 2024 on Tuesday.
Addressing both German and international media representatives at the event, Minister Faisal emphasized the commitment to providing a more enriching and diverse visitor experience through responsible tourism practices, technology integration, community-based tourism, and the expansion of tourism products and markets. He highlighted the recently launched eco-tourism framework by the Ministry of Tourism as evidence of the Maldives’ dedication to this cause.
“While Europe remains a significant contributor, we are seeing a growing share of visitors from East Asia, the Middle East, and other regions,” stated the Minister, underlining the importance of diversifying beyond traditional markets. “We are exploring the exciting potential of sports tourism, MICE , wellness, and medical tourism,”
Beyond the luxurious resorts, Minister Faisal directed attention to community-based tourism initiatives, stating, “The Maldives offers a unique opportunity to delve into the heart of our vibrant communities,” and highlighting the availability of over 14,000 tourist beds in guest houses across the Maldivian Atolls. The Minister also acknowledged the crucial role of connectivity and reiterated that tourists’ safety and security remain top priorities for the Maldives.
With an ambitious yet achievable goal of welcoming 2 million visitors in 2024, the Maldives anticipates a significant increase in arrivals, reflecting the resilience and recovery of the tourism industry. Minister Faisal concluded by extending a warm invitation to travelers worldwide to experience the Sunny Side of Life.
