The Maldives welcomes more than 359,000 tourists from January to March

The country experienced higher revenue in January and February due to the revival of tourism

More than 359,000 tourists have been to the Maldives so far this year. According to the Ministry of Tourism, on average, 4,790 people arrive daily and stay for at least eight days.

Raajje.mv shared statistics showing that between 1 March and 16, 78,500 tourists arrived in the country. These numbers are 49.7 percent higher than the arrivals recorded last year (52,422), but much lower than pre-pandemic figures (81,000).

Russia accounts for 13.7 percent of arrivals with 49,364 tourists, followed by the UK, which accounts for 11.3 percent of arrivals. India comes in third with 10.1 percent.

The country experienced higher revenue in January and February due to the revival of tourism, receiving USD137 million, according to Xinhua.

In the Maldives, there are now 966 tourist lodging establishments in operation — 163 resorts, 643 guesthouses, 12 hotels, and 149 liveaboard vessels.

Corporate visitors are also welcome in the Maldives, which is ideally positioned as a location for MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions), according to the Business Times. 

Thoyyib Mohammed, chief executive officer and managing director of Visit Maldives said “Our islands offer a paradisiacal level of beauty coupled with world-renowned hospitality, putting us in a unique position to redefine MICE as we know it.”

“Let’s forgo indoor boardrooms and large conference halls. Think cocktails in hand, breath-taking sunsets, and an entire island to host your next business event,” he added.

More: Tourist resort starts developing at the sandbank in Mathiveri, Maldives

Travel Daily Media reported that the country has eased its entry requirements. Travel to the Maldives is no longer subject to pre-flight or post-arrival tests and all travel-related quarantines are no longer required starting 14 March.

Protective face masks, however, are still mandatory in health facilities and in outbreak areas. It is also recommended in crowded areas and on public transport.

The Maldives is expecting 1.6 million visitors this year, which is an increase from 2021’s 1.3 million.

The Property Report editors wrote this article. For more information, email: [email protected].