President Mohamed Muizzu has announced that 2027 will be designated as Visit Maldives Year, reinforcing the Government’s long-term strategy to elevate the country’s position as one of the world’s most desirable tourism destinations while supporting sustained economic growth. The announcement was made during the Presidential Address at the opening sitting of People’s Majlis, where the President reiterated that tourism remains the primary pillar of the national economy and a central driver of employment, foreign exchange earnings, and private sector expansion.
As part of this strengthened focus, the Government has revised its tourism target for this year upward from the previously budgeted 2.4 million visitors to 2.5 million. The President noted that the Maldives recorded 2.2 million tourist arrivals last year, reflecting a 9.8 percent increase compared to 2024, while tourism revenue reached USD 5.55 billion, marking a growth of 13.8 percent over the previous year. These results underscore the resilience of the Maldivian tourism sector and its continued ability to attract global travelers seeking premium experiences in a safe, high-quality destination.
Looking ahead, the President stated that Maldives Monetary Authority has projected tourism earnings of USD 5.6 billion for this year. He emphasized that achieving the 2.5 million arrival target, representing an anticipated increase of 11.3 percent—will require close coordination among government institutions, tourism operators, investors, airlines, and destination marketing partners. The declaration of Visit Maldives Year 2027 is intended to serve as a unifying national platform that brings together all stakeholders under a shared vision of innovation, service excellence, and sustainable growth.
The Visit Maldives Year initiative is expected to showcase the country’s diverse resort portfolio, pristine natural environment, and evolving hospitality offerings to a wider global audience. From ultra-luxury private island resorts and family-friendly retreats to wellness-focused sanctuaries and eco-conscious properties, the Maldives continues to expand and refine its product range to meet the expectations of different market segments. Ongoing investments in new resorts, infrastructure, and guest experiences are enhancing connectivity, improving service standards, and reinforcing the Maldives’ reputation as a destination that combines natural beauty with world-class hospitality.
While arrivals at the end of last year were approximately 100,000 below the Government’s earlier target of 2.3 million, momentum in the current year has been encouraging. According to the Ministry of Tourism, more than 200,000 tourists have already arrived so far this year, with daily arrivals currently exceeding 7,000 visitors. These figures reflect strong forward demand and growing confidence among travelers and industry partners.
The Government’s tourism strategy places equal emphasis on volume growth, revenue optimization, and sustainability. By strengthening destination branding through Visit Maldives Year 2027, encouraging responsible development, and fostering innovation across the sector, the Maldives aims to ensure that tourism continues to deliver broad-based economic benefits while preserving the unique natural and cultural assets that define the nation. For global travelers, these developments signal an even more compelling future for the Maldives as a destination that consistently sets benchmarks for quality, experience, and excellence.
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