News Desk
The government is assessing ways to support the Maldivian tourism industry as the conflict in the Middle East continues to affect arrivals and revenue, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu said today. His remarks followed a joint appeal from the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) and the National Hotels and Guest Houses Association of Maldives (NHGAM), who warned that the sector has been under pressure since last year.
Speaking at his weekly press conference, the President said the ministerial committee on the Middle East crisis is studying the challenges facing tourism operators and holding discussions with industry stakeholders.
“When we finalise the issues, we will know what can be done. The government’s special committee of ministers on the Middle East war is conducting research on the matter and looking for ways to provide assistance,” he said.
In their statement, MATATO and NHGAM said the industry has suffered significant losses since March last year. Tourist arrivals in March and April fell between 15 and 20 percent compared with the same period in 2025, raising concerns about further declines in the coming weeks.
Tourism statistics show 843,969 visitors had arrived in the Maldives as of yesterday, a 5.4 percent decrease from 892,020 during the same period last year. Despite the fall in arrivals, the Finance Ministry reported that tourism revenue grew by 13.8 percent in the first four months of the year, exceeding MVR 8 billion. The increase reflects higher per‑visitor spending and stronger performance in some markets.
Industry groups said many operators are facing financial strain as bookings soften and operating costs rise. The President said the government is working to identify the most effective way to support businesses and ensure the sector remains stable during the ongoing geopolitical uncertainty.
