The Maldives has received an overwhelmingly positive response at the ongoing Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024, according to Minister of Tourism and Environment, Ibrahim Thoriq.
Speaking to media during the event, Minister Thoriq highlighted the growing interest in Maldivian tourism from Middle Eastern markets.
The ATM fair is being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from April 28 to May 1, and this year it serves as MMPRC’s flagship international travel event. The Maldives has actively promoted its tourism offerings through high-level meetings with Gulf airlines and government representatives, some of which resulted in signed memoranda of understanding.
Minister Thoriq noted that attracting tourists from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region is a priority due to the high-spending nature of these travellers. "The GCC market is a premium segment. Their visits significantly boost our tourism revenue,” he said.
He added that the Maldives' presence at ATM has been exceptionally successful, with the national stand attracting a large number of visitors and resorts reporting more B2B appointments than expected. “Interest in the Maldives has surpassed expectations. This is a very promising sign for our tourism goals this year,” Minister Thoriq said.
A total of 110 Maldivian companies and 235 delegates took part in ATM 2024. The government aims to attract 2.3 million tourists to the Maldives this year, and officials are confident that the success at ATM will help move the country closer to that goal.