As of now, the Maldives has achieved a significant milestone by welcoming its 1.8 millionth tourist for the year, successfully meeting its original tourist arrival goal.
Stefan Mathijs, a visitor from the Netherlands, arrived in the Maldives with his family on a recent Wednesday evening. His arrival at the Velana International Airport was greeted by Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal and Fathimath Thaufeeq, the Managing Director of the Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation, along with other senior officials.
The Maldives, having been awarded the title of World’s Leading Destination for the fourth consecutive year at the 2023 World Travel Awards, initially set a target of 1.8 million tourists for the year. However, this target was later revised to 1.
9 million, which, if achieved, will set a new record for the highest number of tourists in the country’s history.
Tourism Minister Faisal, speaking with the media, expressed confidence that the Maldives would reach the revised target of 1.9 million tourist arrivals. He noted that the country is currently witnessing an average of 5,000 tourist arrivals daily, though he cautioned that this number varies each day.
A key focus for tourism development, according to Minister Faisal, is the ongoing expansion of the Velana International Airport. He referenced President Dr. Muizzu’s commitment to completing the project within 8-9 months as one of his principal promises.
Stefan, honored as the Maldives’ 1.8 millionth tourist of the year, shared with reporters his surprise at the recognition. He mentioned that his family’s vacation in the Maldives was part of a longer trip, including a visit to Sri Lanka. They plan to return to the Maldives for another five days before heading home, looking forward to enjoying more time in the water under the sun.