Record-Breaking Tourism in 2024

Maldives Achieves Record-Breaking Tourism Milestone in December 2024

In December 2024, the Maldives celebrated a significant milestone in its tourism industry by welcoming its two millionth visitor, reflecting a 9% increase in arrivals compared to the previous year. This achievement underscores the nation's growing appeal as a premier travel destination.​

The record-breaking arrival occurred on December 26, 2024, when Austrian national Astrid Dirnegger, accompanied by her family, landed at Velana International Airport. This visit was particularly special for Ms. Dirnegger, as it marked her third trip to the Maldives.​

This accomplishment surpasses the previous record of 1.7 million tourists in 2023, highlighting the effectiveness of the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation's (MMPRC) marketing strategies and the collaborative efforts of industry stakeholders.​

Looking ahead, the Maldives aims to further bolster its tourism sector by setting an ambitious target of achieving USD 5 billion in tourism receipts for 2025. This goal is supported by innovative campaigns and expanded connectivity, including the operations of Maldivian's wide-body Airbus A330.​

The government's commitment to enhancing tourism infrastructure is evident through significant investments, such as the expansion of regional airports and the development of eco-friendly accommodations. These initiatives aim to distribute tourism benefits more evenly across the archipelago, fostering economic growth in local communities.​

In summary, the Maldives' tourism sector continues to thrive, driven by strategic marketing, infrastructure development, and a collaborative approach among stakeholders. The achievements of 2024 set a positive trajectory for 2025, with the nation poised to reach new heights in tourism excellence.​