The Maldives’ tourism sector maintains steady growth as the first half of September 2024 records a 2.7% increase in tourist arrivals compared to the same period in 2023. From September 1st to 17th, a total of 71,524 tourists visited the country, reflecting sustained interest despite minor fluctuations earlier in the year.
This modest increase from the 69,631 arrivals during the same period in 2023 underscores the resilience of the Maldives’ tourism industry. The growth aligns with the overall positive trend for 2024, which has seen a cumulative total of 1,430,756 tourist arrivals as of mid-September—a notable 10.1% increase from the 1,299,712 arrivals recorded by this time last year.
The earlier months of 2024 showcased significant growth, with February leading at a remarkable 22.2% increase compared to February 2023. July also experienced a strong rise of 15%, while January and March posted solid growth rates of 11.5% and 11.9%, respectively. May, however, saw a slight decline of 0.9% in arrivals—a rare dip in an otherwise successful year.
To support the influx of tourists, the Maldives has an operational accommodation capacity of 64,178 beds as of mid-September 2024. Resorts remain the dominant accommodation type, accounting for 68% of the total bed capacity with 44,329 beds. Guesthouses provide 24% with 14,903 beds, while safari vessels and hotels contribute 5% and 3%, respectively.
As the Maldives continues to attract visitors from key markets such as China, Russia, and the United Kingdom, the nation’s tourism sector is poised for further growth. Backed by expanding accommodation facilities and a strong market presence, the modest increase in arrivals in early September reflects the stability and continued appeal of the Maldives as a leading tourist destination.
