Maldives has experienced a significant increase in tourist arrivals so far this year compared to previous years.

According to the latest statistics released by the Ministry of Tourism, a total of 540,674 tourists visited the Maldives as of March 13th. 

This marks an improvement over the same period last year, which saw 509,953 arrivals.

However, while the overall figures for the year remain higher than previous years, the current daily arrival rate has experienced a slowdown. 

This decline is primarily attributed to the regional instability in the Middle East, leading several major airlines to suspend their flight operations to the Maldives since February 28th. 

Consequently, the influx of tourists has decreased by nearly half during this recent period.

Statistical data indicates that 58,906 tourists arrived between the beginning of March and March 13th. 

In contrast, 77,100 tourists visited during the same timeframe last year.

The leading source markets for tourist arrivals so far this year include China, Russia, Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, and India.