News Desk
The government is moving ahead with preparations to mark 2027 as Visit Maldives Year, a national campaign announced by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to elevate the country’s global profile and secure long term growth in the tourism sector. The President said the Maldives must “build on the record breaking progress of the past year” and present the country to the world with renewed confidence.
The past year saw 2,246,516 tourist arrivals, a 9.8 percent increase compared with the previous year. Tourism revenue reached USD 5.55 billion, according to the Maldives Monetary Authority, a rise of 13.8 percent. The Authority estimates revenue will reach USD 5.6 billion this year. The President said the government aims to welcome 2.5 million tourists in 2026, an 11.3 percent increase, and described Visit Maldives Year as a central part of achieving that target.
The initiative will include international marketing campaigns, roadshows and participation in major global travel fairs. The government’s aim is to strengthen the Maldives’ position in key markets while broadening the range of experiences available to visitors.
A major milestone in the campaign is the Maldives’ selection as the official host country of ITB Berlin 2027, the world’s leading travel trade show. The agreement was signed during ITB Berlin 2026 by Ibrahim Shiuree, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Visit Maldives, and Dr Mario Tobias, Chief Executive Officer of Messe Berlin, at a ceremony held at the Maldives stand at the fair. Shiuree said hosting ITB would give the Maldives a significant platform to highlight its tourism offerings and deepen ties with global industry partners.
As host country, the Maldives will lead the opening gala on 15 March 2027 and present a programme of promotions and cultural events throughout the trade show from 16 to 18 March in Berlin. The President said the campaign would reflect the country’s identity and its ambitions for the future.
The government’s broader strategy includes expanding tourism experiences, strengthening community involvement and promoting sustainability. The President reiterated that tourism remains the backbone of the economy and said the country must continue to innovate while protecting its natural environment. Visit Maldives Year, he said, will showcase the Maldives’ beauty, culture and hospitality to a wider audience.
