Maldives Islamic Tourism (MIT), a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting halal-friendly tourism, has officially launched an initiative to position the Maldives as a leading destination for Muslim travelers. 
The announcement was made on Saturday night at the Convention Centre in Ukulhas, an island recognized for its commitment to local tourism and environmental sustainability.
The initiative aims to integrate the Maldives' natural beauty with Islamic cultural values, offering experiences tailored for Muslim tourists seeking faith-conscious travel. 
Shoaib Ma, the first global ambassador for Maldives Islamic Tourism (MIT) attends his appointment ceremony with local leaders, tourism stakeholders, and community members in A.A. Ukulhas, August 17, 2025. (Photo/MIT)
During the ceremony, MIT announced the appointment of social media influencer Shuaib, also known as Shoaib Ma, a Chinese Muslim influencer, as its first global ambassador. Shuaib was selected for his extensive social media reach, alignment with Islamic values, and ability to authentically promote halal-friendly travel. 
His appointment on August 17 in Ukulhas marks a significant step in MIT's mission to establish the Maldives as a premier destination for Muslim travelers. Through his platform, Shuaib is expected to highlight the Maldives' halal amenities and cultural appeal, leveraging his influence within the global Muslim travel community.
MIT's vision includes developing tourism packages that cater to the needs of Muslim travelers, ensuring access to halal food, prayer facilities, and family-friendly environments, while maintaining the Maldives' reputation as a luxury travel destination. The initiative, originating in Ukulhas, seeks to establish a model for sustainable, culturally sensitive tourism that can be replicated across other islands in the Maldives. 
By promoting Islamic tourism, MIT aims to attract a growing segment of Muslim travelers globally, particularly from the Middle East and Southeast Asia, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange.
The launch event in Ukulhas was attended by local leaders, tourism stakeholders, and community members. A key moment of the ceremony was the formal appointment of Shuaib as MIT’s brand ambassador.
Shoaib Ma, the first global ambassador for Maldives Islamic Tourism (MIT) meets with tourism stakeholders, and community members in A.A. Ukulhas, August 17, 2025. (Photo/MIT)
In his address, Shuaib expressed enthusiasm for his role, emphasizing the potential of Islamic tourism to influence perceptions of the Maldives. 
"I’m truly honored to be part of this incredible initiative," Shuaib stated. He highlighted the importance of providing Muslim travelers with "peace of mind" through access to halal amenities and culturally aligned services. "This is about showing the world that the Maldives can be a home away from home for Muslims everywhere," he added.
 "Together, we can show the world the beauty of the Maldives and the warmth of its people, all while staying true to our faith."