News Desk
MALÉ, Maldives — In an effort to bolster tourism from India, one of the world’s fastest-growing outbound travel markets, the Maldives will host a roadshow across three major Indian cities this month.
The roadshow, organized by the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators, the National Hotels & Guest House Association, and the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation, will take place in Bangalore on July 22, Mumbai on July 24, and New Delhi on July 26.
It comes after a diplomatic rift with India led to boycotts that dealt a blow to the Maldives’ tourism industry. Indian travelers make up a crucial segment for this Indian Ocean destination, renowned for its pristine beaches, upscale resorts and abundant marine life.
“We are focused on strengthening the Maldives’ presence in the Indian market and showcasing our unique offerings tailored for Indian travelers,” said Mohamed Firaq, Managing Director of Ace Travel, a premier travel agency in the Maldives.
The roadshow will feature presentations by Maldivian resorts, hotels, liveaboard cruises and tour companies highlighting new tourism developments, travel packages and special deals. It is supported by IATO India’s premier travel trade association, which represents over 1,800 operators across the country.
While high-level visits between the nations’ leaders have helped ease tensions after the Maldives tilted toward China in recent months, some tourism insiders say underlying strategic issues remain unresolved.
“It’s a bit gingerly, and there has not been enough direct talk to steer and correct the course,” said a tourism industry analyst. “The relationship has improved on the surface, but long-term structural concerns persist.”
