In a recent initiative to promote the Maldives as more than just a luxury getaway, Visit Maldives welcomed well-known Emirati content creator Khalid Al Ameri for a cultural exploration of the island nation. From March 22 to 26, during the holy month of Ramadan, Khalid journeyed across local islands to experience firsthand the Maldivian way of life beyond the famed five-star resorts. His visit was part of a growing effort by the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) to introduce international audiences to the country’s vibrant culture, community traditions, and Islamic heritage. Reflecting on his journey, Khalid shared that beyond the curated image often seen on social media, he encountered “the real Maldives”, a place filled with inspiring stories, warm hospitality, and deep-rooted traditions. He expressed his gratitude to Visit Maldives for making the experience possible and for connecting him to the soul of the islands.
Khalid Al Ameri, celebrated across the Middle East for his heartfelt storytelling and positive social content, has built a digital community of more than 21 million followers. His content often highlights family values, cultural understanding, and shared human experiences, making him an ideal ambassador to showcase the Maldives’ lesser-known, yet deeply enriching, local experiences. During his stay, Khalid joined in Ramadan iftar meals with island communities, engaged with residents, and explored the country’s Islamic traditions. He also stayed in halal-friendly accommodations, demonstrating how the Maldives seamlessly blends cultural authenticity with high-quality service. Through daily videos and photos shared on his platforms, he brought millions of his followers along for the journey, offering them a rare look at daily life in the Maldives far from the overwater villas and infinity pools typically associated with the destination.
This collaboration aligns with Visit Maldives’ broader tourism strategy to diversify its image and attract travelers interested in immersive and culturally meaningful experiences. While the Maldives remains synonymous with serene beaches and exclusive resorts, there is a growing global demand for travel that includes real connections and stories from local communities. Visit Maldives is responding by actively promoting the country’s inhabited islands, where travelers can discover traditional crafts, island cuisine, and community life that has thrived for generations. Cultural elements are increasingly being featured at international tourism exhibitions and campaigns, with guesthouses, local eateries, and communal experiences gaining popularity among foreign visitors.
The Middle East continues to be a key market for Maldivian tourism, with over 79,000 travelers from the region visiting in 2024 alone. Khalid Al Ameri’s visit is a meaningful step in strengthening this connection by highlighting shared cultural values and showcasing the Maldives as a welcoming destination for Muslim travelers seeking familiarity in faith and lifestyle, while also offering new experiences. His videos from sharing home-cooked Maldivian dishes with locals to strolling through coral-paved village paths, have helped shift the narrative and show that the Maldives is not just a honeymoon haven, but also a living cultural landscape waiting to be explored.
Through partnerships like this, Visit Maldives continues to redefine how the world experiences the islands. By opening the door to authentic local stories and traditions, the campaign encourages tourists to see the Maldives through a more personal and enriching lens one where natural beauty meets cultural depth, and where every island has its own tale to tell.
advertisment
advertisment
