Travel And Tour World: How do the newly inaugurated tourism zones in the Maldives contribute to the country’s development?

Thoyyib Mohamed: The newly inaugurated tourism zones in the Maldives are poised to significantly bolster the country’s development. These zones are set to draw in a larger influx of tourists, fostering economic growth through increased revenue from the tourism industry. Moreover, they offer visitors the chance to immerse themselves in unique and diverse experiences across the breathtaking landscapes of the Maldives, thereby enhancing the nation’s appeal as a top tourist destination. This, in turn, will not only stimulate the tourism sector but also create new opportunities for local businesses and employment, ultimately contributing to the overall development of the Maldives.

Travel And Tour World: What factors have contributed to the Maldives becoming the top destination on the ‘World’s Travel Bucket List’ for travellers from 121 countries, and what are the primary reasons travellers choose to visit the Maldives?

Thoyyib Mohamed: The Maldives’ emergence as the premier destination on the ‘World’s Travel Bucket List’ for travellers from 121 countries can be attributed to a harmonious blend of factors. Its unique geography, with its stunning coral atolls and crystalline waters, creates an irresistible allure. The Maldives also boasts a rich and vibrant culture, offering travellers a chance to immerse themselves in local traditions and customs. The promise of unparalleled, one-of-a-kind experiences, such as underwater dining and overwater bungalows, adds to its appeal. The iconic ‘one island, one resort’ concept ensures exclusivity and privacy, drawing those seeking a tranquil escape. These factors, collectively make the Maldives a top choice for travellers seeking unforgettable, idyllic getaways.

Travel And Tour World: Could you elaborate on the strategies and initiatives that you have implemented to attract tourists, and how close is the country to achieving its goal of 1.8 million tourist arrivals by the end of 2023?

Thoyyib Mohamed: In our efforts to attract tourists, we’ve implemented a comprehensive 360 degree marketing strategy designed to promote the Maldives as a top-of-the-mind destination. Our approach involves a multi faceted array of marketing activities, including participation in international fairs, roadshows, familiarisation trips, marketing campaigns, webinars and interviews as well as digital marketing campaigns and promotions through social media. These initiatives collectively serve as our overarching strategy to establish the ‘Maldives’ brand, tap into the niche markets and explore the endless possibilities that the Maldives is known for.

Notably, our emphasis on sustainability, MICE tourism, diving experiences, and other unique offerings has resonated positively with travellers. We maintain a global presence worldwide, ensuring continuous promotion throughout the year. Regarding our goal of achieving 1.8 million tourist arrivals by the end of 2023, we are on the cusp of success. Currently, we’ve surpassed pre-pandemic levels from various markets, and the reopening of the Chinese market has significantly boosted our numbers. China now ranks third, with the Indian market as our second-largest source of arrivals, indicating our close proximity to reaching our ambitious target.

Travel And Tour World: Are there any specific trends or insights regarding the timing of tourist arrivals in the Maldives, especially concerning the peak tourist season at the end of the year, and how does this impact the country’s tourism industry and infrastructure?

Thoyyib Mohamed : Towards the end of the year, the Maldives experiences its peak tourist season, with many tourist establishments fully booked. This surge in visitors greatly enhances the nation’s tourism sector and contributes significantly to its economic prosperity. To ensure sustained growth, we also actively promote the Maldives as a year-round destination. This strategic approach aims to distribute tourist arrivals more evenly throughout the year, and enhance the resilience of the Maldives’ tourism sector.

Travel And Tour World: Share with us your message on World Tourism Day 2023 and how Maldives is working to promote sustainable and community culture in tourism industry

Thoyyib Mohamed: Today, as we celebrate this special day, I would like to highlight how sustainability efforts have been the cornerstone of our tourism industry. We recognize that preserving the natural beauty that draws visitors from around the globe to our shores is paramount. Our destination marketing efforts not only attract tourists but also promote sustainability. We embrace a bold approach by incorporating sustainability messaging in all marketing campaigns and activities, from fairs and roadshows to our active presence on social media platforms. This approach ensures that tourists are not only captivated by our scenic landscapes but also inspired to make eco-friendly travel choices. It is imperative that we continue working together to nurture a sustainable tourism industry. Embracing environmentally responsible practices is essential to safeguard the resources that have made the Maldives world-renowned, ensuring that our archipelago remains a beacon of natural beauty for generations to come.