UK surpasses Russia to become second largest tourist market for Maldives
The United Kingdom has emerged as the second-largest source market for tourist arrivals in the Maldives, according to the latest data released by the Ministry of Tourism.
As of April 5, a total of 70,561 visitors from the UK had arrived in the Maldives, accounting for 10.6% of the market share.
This places the UK just ahead of Russia, which recorded 70,538 tourist arrivals during the same period—also representing a 10.6% market share.
Until the end of March, Russia held the second position with 61,583 arrivals.
China continues to lead as the top tourist source market with 76,674 arrivals so far this year, holding an 11.5% share of the total.
The overall tourist arrivals in the Maldives this year have reached 667,730 as of April 5.
For three consecutive months, the country has welcomed over 200,000 tourists each month.
This marks a 5.8% increase compared to the same period in 2024, when the Maldives recorded 630,867 arrivals.
The rise in UK arrivals comes as the Maldives intensifies its tourism promotion efforts in the country.
Notably, a campaign has been launched in collaboration with Liverpool Football Club, naming the Maldives as the club’s “Official Tourist Destination Partner.”
According to the government, this strategic partnership is aimed at boosting the visibility of the Maldives tourism brand globally.
As part of the agreement, the Maldives will be promoted through various Liverpool FC club activities, with the goal of attracting more visitors from the UK and other international markets.