The Maldives is set to achieve its ambitious goal of welcoming 2 million tourists in 2024, with the milestone expected to be reached this Thursday. Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal announced that, as of December 21, the country had already received 1.96 million visitors.
According to the Ministry of Tourism, the Maldives is experiencing a surge in arrivals, with an average of 6,259 tourists arriving daily in December—a 7.2% increase compared to the same period last year. Throughout 2024, the daily average stood at 5,531 visitors, reinforcing the Maldives' reputation as a premier global travel destination.
China has emerged as the top source market this year, contributing 260,940 visitors. Other significant markets include Russia (216,092 tourists), the United Kingdom (173,939), Germany (151,298), and Italy (133,736). Meanwhile, India, which led as the largest source market for the past three years, has seen a drop to 126,055 visitors this year.
Despite the introduction of higher taxes, such as increased departure and airport development fees, as well as a rise in the green tax and a bump in the Tourism Goods and Services Tax (TGST) from 16% to 17%, the Maldives is experiencing record-breaking visitor numbers. Tourists are also staying an average of 7.7 nights, reflecting the allure of the Maldives’ luxury resorts and unspoiled landscapes.
With only days left to reach its target, these record figures underscore the enduring appeal of the Maldives as a travel hotspot and the resilience of its tourism industry in drawing visitors from around the globe.