The Maldives has been announced as the Official Host Country of ITB Berlin 2027, positioning the island nation at the centre of one of the world’s most influential travel trade fairs. The announcement was made during ITB Berlin 2026 following the signing of an agreement between Ibrahim Shiuree, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Visit Maldives (VMC), and Mario Tobias, Chief Executive Officer of Messe Berlin, at the Maldives’ exhibition stand.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Tobias expressed his appreciation for the Maldives returning as host country ten years after its first appearance in that role. He noted that the renewed partnership reflects the continued significance of ITB Berlin as a leading international platform for the travel and tourism industry while also demonstrating the Maldives’ expanding prominence as a globally recognised tourism destination.
Renowned for its natural beauty and distinctive island geography, the Maldives comprises more than 1,000 islands set amid turquoise lagoons, white-sand beaches and vibrant coral reef ecosystems. The country has developed a globally recognised tourism industry offering a diverse range of experiences, from world-class luxury resorts and boutique island properties to community-based tourism on inhabited islands. Visitors are drawn not only by the tranquil surroundings but also by opportunities for diving, water sports, wellness retreats and cultural encounters that reflect the heritage and traditions of the Maldivian people.
Tourism authorities continue to place strong emphasis on sustainability as the sector evolves. National strategies and resort-level initiatives focus on protecting marine ecosystems, promoting responsible tourism practices and supporting local communities through employment opportunities, environmental conservation programmes and community partnerships. The Maldives’ tourism model has increasingly incorporated sustainability principles aimed at safeguarding the country’s natural assets while ensuring long-term economic and social benefits.
Visit Maldives Managing Director Ibrahim Shiuree stated that hosting ITB Berlin 2027 will provide an important platform to showcase the Maldives’ diverse tourism offerings to travellers, tourism professionals and industry stakeholders from around the world. The event will allow the country to highlight its hospitality sector, investment opportunities and unique experiences while strengthening relationships with international travel partners.
The announcement follows a recent official visit to Berlin by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, during which the Maldivian Head of State met Germany’s Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. The discussions reinforced the longstanding diplomatic relationship between the Maldives and Germany and reflected the broader engagement between the Maldives and international partners in tourism, trade and cultural exchange.
The Government of Maldives has also designated 2027 as “Visit Maldives Year 2027,” a nationwide initiative aimed at enhancing global awareness of the destination. The campaign is expected to include a wide range of international marketing activities, travel trade engagements and digital promotional programmes designed to strengthen the Maldives’ visibility in key tourism markets.
As the Official Host Country of ITB Berlin 2027, the Maldives will organise and host the official opening gala of the exhibition on 15 March 2027. From 16 to 18 March, the country will present a series of cultural showcases, networking sessions and tourism presentations highlighting Maldivian hospitality, traditions and tourism experiences to global travel industry leaders and participants.
Industry observers note that the event will offer the Maldives an important opportunity to deepen partnerships with major European markets and introduce new collaborations within the global tourism sector. By hosting the world’s leading travel trade exhibition, the Maldives will further reinforce its reputation as a premier island destination while presenting its evolving tourism landscape to international audiences.
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