The Maldives is experiencing a significant surge in tourism this year, achieving a quarter of its annual tourist arrival target of two million in March, according to the latest data released by the Ministry of Tourism. As of 19 March, the Maldives has welcomed 524,339 tourists. This represents a 13 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023, when the tourist arrival count was 463,898.
“We are 25% closer to our goal and ahead of schedule,” stated Ibrahim Faisal, the Minister of Tourism. “This is a testament to the relentless efforts of every individual in the tourism industry, who have worked tirelessly to showcase the unparalleled hospitality and beauty of our country.”
The first quarter of the year has seen a consistent increase in tourist arrivals. The daily average of arrivals was over 6,200 in January, which rose to 7,400 in February. The average daily arrival figure in March stands at over 6,000, bringing the combined daily average from January until 19 March to 6,600.
Monthly arrivals have also followed an upward trajectory, a typical pattern observed in the first few months of the year before the onset of the low season. While 192,385 tourists were welcomed in January, the number increased to 217,392 the following month. Until 19 March, 114,562 tourists have arrived, slightly higher than the 113,484 recorded during the same period in 2023.
China remains the top tourism source market this year, accounting for 11.7 percent of the market share, with 61,410 arrivals as of 19 March. Russia follows closely with 53,624 visitors, contributing 10.2 percent of the market share.
Italy and the United Kingdom trail behind with 50,493 and 48,057 arrivals, respectively. Germany rounds off the top five source markets with 37,027 visitors. Other significant source markets include India, the top source market for 2023, France, the United States, Poland, and Switzerland.