The Maldives has reaffirmed its strong presence in the global tourism marketplace at the ITB Berlin Fair 2026, with industry leaders highlighting the significant role the international event has played in shaping and advancing the country’s tourism sector over several decades. Chairman of the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), Hussain Afeef, described the fair as one of the most influential platforms that has contributed to the growth of the Maldives as one of the world’s most recognized and sought-after travel destinations.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with PSM News during the ITB Berlin Fair, Afeef reflected on the long-standing participation of the Maldives in the event and emphasized the importance of engaging with the global tourism community through such large-scale industry gatherings. He noted that ITB Berlin has been held for nearly six decades and that the Maldives has been actively participating for approximately 45 years, during which the country’s tourism sector has experienced significant transformation and expansion. According to Afeef, the opportunities created through participation in international platforms such as ITB Berlin have played a key role in introducing new ideas, strengthening global partnerships, and enhancing the international visibility of the Maldives.
Afeef explained that the Maldivian tourism industry has evolved considerably since its early years when tourism activities were largely concentrated within resort properties. Over time, the sector has diversified with the introduction of guesthouse tourism and homestay experiences across inhabited islands, allowing visitors to explore local culture and community life alongside the country’s renowned luxury resort offerings. This expansion has created new economic opportunities for local communities while broadening the range of tourism products available to international travelers.
He highlighted that participation in global tourism marketplaces provides an important opportunity for the Maldives to present these developments to international travel professionals, tour operators, and investors. ITB Berlin, widely regarded as the largest tourism trade fair in the world, gathers tourism stakeholders from across continents, making it an essential platform for destination marketing and business networking. Afeef stressed that maintaining a strong presence at such an event is vital for promoting the Maldives’ diverse tourism offerings and strengthening the country’s competitive position within the global travel market.
The Maldivian delegation participating in ITB Berlin 2026 reflects the breadth and diversity of the nation’s tourism industry. A total of 159 representatives from 67 tourism-related companies are taking part in the event this year. The delegation includes internationally renowned luxury resorts, boutique guesthouses operating on local islands, safari vessels that offer liveaboard experiences across the archipelago, as well as travel agencies and tourism service providers. Together, they are presenting a comprehensive showcase of Maldivian tourism products to global industry partners and travel markets.
Through its participation at ITB Berlin, the Maldives continues to promote its unique natural beauty, world-class hospitality standards, and expanding range of travel experiences that cater to different visitor preferences. Industry leaders view the event as an important opportunity to strengthen relationships with international tourism partners, attract new markets, and further enhance the global reputation of the Maldives as a premier destination for leisure, luxury, and authentic island experiences.
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