Faisal urges higher occupancy, extended stays to fuel Maldives' tourism

Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal on Thursday called on the industry to not only focus on increasing tourist arrivals but also to boost occupancy rates, extend the length of tourist stays, and enhance tourist spending in the Maldives.

Speaking at the GM Forum 2024, Faisal expressed optimism that tourist arrivals in the Maldives would surpass 2 million by the end of the year. He emphasised that this target can only be met through the collaboration of all stakeholders in the tourism sector. The government, he added, aims to increase tourism revenue to $6 billion.

Addressing the forum, Faisal acknowledged the critical role general managers play in the tourism industry.

“You [GMs] are at the forefront of tourism. I urge you to contribute towards making this industry more sustainable,” he said, commending the hard work of resort general managers.

He also highlighted the need for a shift in how the Maldives promotes itself and delivers services to tourists. “It’s not by chance that tourists spend more. The industry should create more opportunities for local businesses and skilled individuals to contribute to this goal,” Faisal noted.

With the ongoing development of Velana International Airport, the focus should be on improving occupancy rates and increasing the duration of tourist stays in the Maldives, he stated.

“I urge the industry to promote Maldivian tourism not only by attracting more visitors but also by focusing on raising occupancy rates and extending the length of tourist stays,” said Faisal.

Faisal also stressed the importance of sustainable tourism development in line with the country’s tourism master plan. He urged the industry to prioritise environmental preservation while extending the benefits of tourism to all regions of the country.