President Solih launches first issue of Maldives Tourism Bulletin

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, on Thursday, launched the first issue of the Maldives Tourism Bulletin.

Announcing the launch via Twitter, President Solih expressed confidence that the tourism magazine would become a useful resource for industry stakeholders, students and visitors.

Issued by the Ministry of Tourism, the bulletin will outline the government plans to further develop the Maldivian tourism sector.

In the foreword of the first issue, President Solih stated that the country's natural assets, as well as the tourism sector’s dedication and expertise, had established Maldives as one of the most popular destinations in the world.

Reflecting on the difficulties faced by the tourism industry as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, President Solih noted that tourist arrival figures were once again increasing following the combined efforts of stakeholders as well as stringent safety measures implemented to ensure traveller safety.

He went on to express optimism that the tourism sector would make gains in 2021 as Maldives and global market recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Maldives Tourism Bulletin can be viewed through tourism.gov.mv/en/news/maldives_tourism_bulletin.

Maldives reopened its borders to international passengers in July after nearly four months since the state halted issuing on-arrival visas on March 27. Guesthouses were permitted to resume operations and kick start local tourism on October 15.

Throughout the year, Visit Maldives has maintained efforts to increase destination presence and visibility within key foreign markets by conducting various marketing activities and campaigns.

On December 12, Maldives recorded the arrival of the 100,000th tourist following the removal of travel restrictions. Five days after the milestone was reached, the government welcomed the 500,000th tourist for the year 2020.

Overall, more than 550,000 tourists had visitied Maldives by the end of 2020.

Although Maldives has noted a significant reduction in tourist arrivals compared to pre-COVID figures, there has been a gradual increase with the establishment of travel bubbles between Maldives and other countries, as well as greater connectivity in terms of flight operations.

The government aims to attract a total of 1.2 million tourists to Maldives in 2021, compared to the country's record of 1.7 million in 2019. Minister of Tourism Abdulla Mausoom had expressed his belief that the upcoming year would be a triumphant one for the island nation's tourism sector.