Momentum builds in drive to regain Indian tourist arrivals

Tourism related statistics indicate that progress is being seen in Maldives' efforts to regain the Indian market. 

The monthly report published by central bank Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) shows that there is an year on year increase in the number of tourist arrivals from India in the first seven months of the year. 

As of July last year, 71,600 Indian tourists visited the Maldives. The number has risen to 75,637 during the same period this year. 

This figure is calculated including the small dip in July compared to the preceding six months. July's numbers of 9,136 Indian tourist arrivals is the lowest recorded this year. 

Before Maldives-India relations soured in the initial days of this administration, India was a leading source market in Maldives' tourism. While diplomatic relations have now been strengthened, Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) is actively working to boost tourist arrivals from India. 

As such, VMC has organized a number of roadshows in various Indian cities this year, holding events featuring major Indian celebrities. 

In June, VMC also announced that Bollywood star Katrina Kaif has been appointed as a Global Brand Ambassador of Visit Maldives' Sunny Side of Life. 

Last year, over 130,000 Indian tourists visited the Maldives. VMC aims to increase this number to 300,000 this year. 

Overall statistics in tourism show that Maldives has maintained a positive momentum so far this year. As of August 28, 1,468,740 tourist arrivals have been recorded this year, a 9.3 percent increase from the same period last year. 

The government aims to exceed the 2 million tourist arrivals record set last year, and reach 2.3 million tourist arrivals by the end of this year.