Middle East war continues affecting the Maldives; Tourist arrivals down 3.4 percent this month

Data from the Ministry of Tourism shows that total tourist arrivals to the Maldives so far in October have declined by 3.4 percent compared to October of last year.

By the 14th of this month, 79,529 tourists had arrived, whereas 82,770 tourists visited the Maldives during the same period last year.

This represents a 3.9 percent decrease. Additionally, total tourist arrivals reached 1,741,801 by October last year, compared to 1,682,550 tourists recorded so far this year.

Statistics indicate that resorts remain the most popular choice for tourist stays, accounting for 1,219,734 visitors.

Meanwhile, 360,016 tourists opted for guesthouses, 37,514 stayed at hotels, and 31,509 stayed on safari vessels/liveaboards.

China continues as the top source market with 317,524 arrivals, followed by Russia in second place with 239,816 arrivals, and the United Kingdom in third place with 125,051 arrivals.

The primary reason identified for the decline in arrivals is the conflict that broke out in the Middle East on February 28.

Due to the war, several flights to the Maldives were canceled, keeping the arrival growth rate down by 3.5 percent.

Statistics show this drop has also impacted state revenue, with Tourism Goods and Services Tax (TGST) collections down by 126 million Rufiyaa compared to last year.

Although the Maldives welcomed a total of 2.2 million tourists last year, Tourism Minister stated at the 'Ahaa' Forum that he expects arrivals to reach a similar target by the end of this year.

To achieve this goal, the Maldives will need to welcome approximately 200,000 tourists per month over the remaining three months of the year.

With the upcoming peak tourist season, the Ministry of Tourism anticipates a strong recovery and significant growth in the sector toward the end of the year.