The Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has launched a strategic partnerships exploration mission to Saudi Arabia from October 5–7, 2025, aiming to unlock the immense potential of the Saudi outbound travel market and elevate bilateral tourism cooperation between the two nations.
Expanding Opportunities in a Growing Market
With a population exceeding 35 million and rapidly increasing air connectivity, Saudi Arabia represents one of the most dynamic outbound tourism markets in the Middle East. Rising disposable incomes, evolving travel preferences, and economic stability have encouraged Saudi travelers to seek premium, short-haul destinations that offer exclusivity and cultural alignment — a niche in which the Maldives stands out.
In 2024, over 80,000 visitors from the Middle East traveled to the Maldives, accounting for 4.3% of total arrivals, while Saudi Arabia alone saw nearly 5,000 stopover arrivals, marking a 130% year-on-year growth. This surge underscores the kingdom’s growing appetite for Maldivian experiences and its potential as a high-value tourism market.
Strengthening Partnerships and Media Collaboration
As part of the mission, MATATO held high-level meetings with key Saudi stakeholders to deepen collaboration across tourism, media, and trade. On October 6, the delegation met with the Maldives Embassy in Riyadh to coordinate joint promotional efforts, culminating in a Memorandum of Understanding to formalize cooperation in marketing, stakeholder engagement, and bilateral tourism development.
Additionally, MATATO met with the Middle East Broadcasting Center (MBC) — the region’s leading media conglomerate — to explore storytelling partnerships that will enhance the Maldives’ visibility and emotional resonance among Saudi audiences. The association is also participating in the BTR program, which convenes tour operators, travel agencies, and hospitality leaders to facilitate direct business engagement and networking opportunities.
Tailoring Maldives for Saudi Travelers
Looking ahead, MATATO emphasized that transforming Saudi interest into sustained visitation will require improved air connectivity, tailored experiences, and localized service delivery. Key initiatives include creating integrated flight packages from Riyadh to Malé with seamless domestic transfers, introducing halal-friendly resort services, expanding Arabic-language support, and designing culturally familiar travel experiences that appeal to Saudi families and honeymooners.
The association also highlighted the role of Saudi media and influencer collaborations in amplifying the Maldives’ brand as a destination offering not just scenic beauty, but also depth, authenticity, and personalized experiences for discerning travelers.
A Strategic Step Toward Bilateral Tourism Growth
MATATO described the Saudi Partnerships Exploration Trip as a pivotal milestone in Maldives–Saudi relations, blending diplomacy, trade, and tourism branding. The initiative aims to position Saudi Arabia among the Maldives’ top strategic source markets, driving long-term growth through sustained cooperation with both government and private-sector stakeholders.
With the support of the Maldives Embassy, industry partners, and a shared vision for mutual prosperity, MATATO’s mission signals a new era of regional tourism diplomacy — one that promises to strengthen economic ties and cultural connections between the Maldives and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
