The Maldives is experiencing a significant boost in tourism this December, with over 82,000 visitors arriving in the first half of the month. According to the latest statistics from the Ministry of Tourism, the islands have welcomed 82,484 tourists between December 1 and 14, marking a 3.3% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This trend suggests that the Maldives continues to be a popular travel destination in the region.
Strong Start to December
The daily arrivals in December have been impressive, with an average of 5,892 tourists arriving every day. The busiest day so far was December 13, when 7,162 visitors touched down at Velana International Airport (VIA). Other notable days include December 1 with 7,100 tourists and December 12, which saw 6,085 arrivals.
Growth Over the Years
Tourism in the Maldives has shown a steady increase over the past few years. Between January 1 and December 14, 2024, the total number of tourists arriving in the country has reached nearly 1.92 million. This is a nine percent increase from the 1.76 million arrivals recorded during the same period in 2023, and a notable rise from the 1.57 million in 2022.
Despite this positive trend, the Maldives is still just short of its target for 2024, which is to reach 2 million arrivals by the end of the year. However, with the ongoing surge in December, the country is likely to meet its goal.
The Top Source Markets
The top tourist markets for the Maldives remain varied, with China leading the way. As of mid-December, China accounted for 13.4% of the arrivals, contributing 257,794 visitors. Russia, which briefly took the top spot earlier in the year, now holds second place with 212,685 arrivals, making up 11.1% of the market share. The United Kingdom, which has long been a key source of tourism, now ranks third with 8.8% of the market share, bringing in 168,460 tourists so far in 2024.
Other countries contributing significantly to the Maldives' tourist influx include Germany, Italy, and India, followed by the United States, France, and Spain. These countries represent a mix of long-standing and emerging markets for the Maldivian tourism industry.
Tourism in the Maldives continues to grow, as the islands remain a popular destination for travelers seeking natural beauty and luxury experiences. The Maldives has set ambitious goals for the year, with hopes of reaching 2 million visitors by December 31, 2024. As a popular destination, the Maldives has proven to be resilient, adapting to changes in global travel patterns and attracting visitors from diverse markets.
The surge in tourist arrivals to the Maldives this December is a strong indication of the country’s enduring appeal. With continued growth in visitor numbers, particularly from key markets like China and Russia, the Maldives is well-positioned to meet its tourism goals for the year. The Maldives continues to offer unique experiences, from its stunning beaches to world-class resorts, ensuring that it remains a top destination for travelers worldwide.
