The Maldives has achieved a milestone in its tourism sector by welcoming over 600,000 tourists in the first quarter of 2024. From 1 January to 31 March, the Maldives welcomed 604,004 tourists, exceeding a quarter of the arrival target of two million set for 2024, according to statistics released by the Ministry of Tourism.
This accomplishment represents a 15.3 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023, when the number of tourist arrivals was 523,928. In 2022, the figure was recorded at 431,524.
China remains the leading source market for the Maldives this year, contributing 67,399 visitors, accounting for 11.2 percent of the total market share. Russia follows closely with 61,752 arrivals, making up 10.2 percent of the market share.
The United Kingdom holds the third position with 58,382 arrivals, followed by Italy with 57,569 arrivals and Germany with 47,024 arrivals. Interestingly, India, which held the top position in 2023, has slid to the fifth position this year, with 34,855 arrivals, accounting for 5.8 percent of the market share. France, the United States, Switzerland, and Poland are also among the top ten source markets on the list.
In a bid to set a new record of two million tourist arrivals this year, the government has amplified its marketing and promotional campaigns. This ambitious target follows the impressive figure of 1,878,543 tourists that the Maldives welcomed in 2023.