The Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has stated that the government is managing the tourism sector in an organised manner despite the ongoing unrest in the Middle East.
Speaking on PSM News’ Raajje Miadhu programme, MATATO Vice President Mohamed Shaaz Waleed said the Middle East serves as a major transit hub for tourists travelling to the Maldives. While several flights to the Maldives transit through the region, the country must work together to address travel disruptions caused by the unrest, he said.
Shaaz said the situation should be seen as an opportunity to rethink tourism promotion and attract visitors differently from competing destinations, instead of being discouraged by the situation. He noted that tourists stranded due to disruptions have been managed well so far.
According to Shaaz, the government has handled the situation effectively, and tour operators have observed that processes have been smoother compared to other countries.
Shaaz also said local tourism companies are cooperating to support the sector, although international resort companies that have invested in the Maldivian tourism sector are not providing the same level of support.
MATATO stated that tourism demand for the Maldives has not significantly changed despite the unrest in the Middle East.