President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has revealed that the government is aiming for 2.5 million tourist arrivals in 2026. Tourism Revenue is expected to rise, because of the higher arrivals.
During the Presidential Address, President Muizzu said that tourism represents the main pillar of the Maldivian economy. He said it is the primary revenue source for the nation and that previous year was marked by notable achievements in the sector.
The President highlighted that 2.2 million tourists arrived at Maldives at the end of 2025. This was a 9.8 percent increase compared to 2024. According to figures released by the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), in 2025, tourism generated over USD 5.5 billion in revenue. The President highlighted that this too was a 13.8 percent increase compared to previous year.
Additionally, he said, this year the target was to welcome 2.5 million tourist arrivals to the Maldives.
“MMA projects tourism will generate USD 5.6 billion tis year. The government aims to increase tourism arrivals to 2.5 million and 11.3 percent progress. To achieve this, everybody’s participation in promoting Maldives is vital. As such, I announce 2027 to be Visit Maldives Year.”, The President said.
The President said that in 2023 not one resort or tourist hotel was inaugurated. Nevertheless, in the past two years, 6535 tourist beds have been added. Additionally, in 2024, four resorts were opened and in the preceding 2023, three resorts were opened.
The President also revealed that an additional seven resorts and guesthouses will be inaugurated this year. The President also remarked that the government has proposed special incentives for investments for tourism development, especially in the six atolls where the sector is underdeveloped, with an emphasis on halal tourism.