The Maldives has been officially announced as the Host Country of ITB Berlin 2027, marking a major milestone for the island nation’s tourism industry. The agreement was signed during a special ceremony at the Maldives’ stand at ITB Berlin 2026, positioning the country to take center stage at the world’s leading travel trade show.
The partnership was formalized by Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO and Managing Director of Visit Maldives Corporation, and Dr. Mario Tobias, CEO of Messe Berlin, during an official photo ceremony held at the Maldives pavilion in Hall 5.2.
Dr. Tobias welcomed the Maldives’ return to the prominent role, noting the significance of the partnership for the global tourism sector.
“We are delighted that, ten years after their first appearance as Host Country, the Maldives will once again take center stage at ITB Berlin. This long-standing partnership underscores the importance of ITB Berlin as a global platform and highlights the Maldives’ prominent role in the international travel industry. In 2027, we look forward to showcasing the Maldives’ extraordinary beauty and diversity, while also demonstrating how tourism and sustainability can go hand in hand,” Tobias said.
Global Spotlight for the Maldives
With more than 1,000 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is widely recognized as one of the world’s most iconic long-haul travel destinations. The country’s tourism offering combines luxury resorts, boutique properties, vibrant coral reefs, turquoise lagoons, and pristine white beaches.
As the official Host Country, the Maldives plans to showcase the full breadth of its tourism experiences to global travel professionals. These include diving and water sports, wellness retreats, cultural experiences on local islands, and high-end resort hospitality that has positioned the destination as a global leader in luxury tourism.
Sustainability will also be a central theme of the Maldives’ presence at ITB Berlin 2027. The country continues to promote initiatives aimed at protecting marine ecosystems, preserving coral reefs, and supporting local communities through responsible tourism development.
Visit Maldives CEO Highlights Global Opportunity
Speaking during the ceremony, Visit Maldives CEO Ibrahim Shiuree described the host country role as an important opportunity to promote the destination to the global travel industry.
“ITB Berlin provides us with the ideal platform to showcase the unique experiences our islands offer to travelers from around the world. We look forward to welcoming the global tourism industry in Berlin and highlighting the diversity, quality and hospitality that define the Maldives as a destination,” Shiuree said.
Strong Tourism Diplomacy Momentum
The announcement follows a recent high-level visit by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to Berlin, where he was received by the German Federal President. The visit highlighted the Maldives’ growing strategic engagement with Germany and Europe, one of the country’s most important tourism markets.
Germany remains a key source market for the Maldives tourism industry, consistently ranking among the top contributors to visitor arrivals.
“Visit Maldives Year 2027” Campaign
The host country role also aligns with the government’s broader tourism campaign titled “Visit Maldives Year 2027.”
The initiative, announced by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, aims to promote the Maldives globally through coordinated marketing campaigns, travel trade events, roadshows and digital promotions. The campaign is designed to strengthen the country’s global tourism brand while supporting sustainable growth in the sector.
Tourism remains the largest contributor to the Maldivian economy, driving foreign exchange earnings, employment and national development.
Major Showcase Planned for ITB Berlin 2027
As Host Country, the Maldives will lead several headline events during the exhibition. The country will host the official ITB Berlin Opening Gala on 15 March 2027, followed by a vibrant showcase throughout the trade show from 16 to 18 March 2027.
Visitors can expect a large national pavilion featuring Maldivian culture, performances, networking events, and media activities designed to highlight the destination’s appeal to global travel partners.
By assuming the Host Country role, the Maldives reinforces its long-standing engagement with ITB Berlin and aims to strengthen partnerships with key European markets while attracting new travel demand.
The event is expected to place the Maldives firmly in the global spotlight, showcasing the country’s natural beauty, tourism innovation and hospitality to the international travel community.
