The Maldives has achieved its strongest tourism performance in history in 2025, with travel receipts projected to exceed USD 5.4 billion, a landmark outcome driven by the strategic guidance and economic direction of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.
According to figures released by the Maldives Monetary Authority, tourism receipts grew by 15.8 percent year on year compared to 2024, decisively surpassing the national target of USD 5 billion and reaffirming tourism as the backbone of the Maldivian economy.
The historic result comes in a year that also set a new benchmark for tourist arrivals. While 2025 began amid cautious industry forecasts following debates on proposed airport tax and Tourism Goods and Services Tax adjustments scheduled for 2026, the sector expanded with confidence under a clear national policy framework focused on revenue sustainability and long-term growth.
Surface arrivals increased by approximately 10 percent by year end, alongside growth in total bed nights, signalling sustained demand across key global markets. Bed capacity also expanded with the opening of new resorts and guesthouses, strengthening the country’s accommodation portfolio and reinforcing its competitiveness across luxury and mid-market segments.
One of the most notable achievements of the year was the Maldives’ exceptional low-season performance. Double-digit month-on-month growth in arrivals during traditionally slower periods highlighted the success of diversified destination marketing and market repositioning efforts led by Visit Maldives Corporation.
Key source markets delivered robust gains, with arrivals from China rising by 22 percent and Russia recording 20 percent growth, reaffirming their strategic importance to the Maldives’ tourism expansion. While rapid capacity growth has placed pressure on occupancy levels, Visit Maldives has continued to coordinate closely with industry stakeholders through targeted campaigns and innovative strategies, with several high-impact initiatives already in development for 2026.
Global recognition further cemented the Maldives’ standing as a world-leading destination. In 2025, the country secured the World Travel Awards World’s Leading Destination title for the sixth consecutive year, setting a new international record. Maldivian resorts also received multiple accolades from Condé Nast Traveler, alongside prestigious MICHELIN Key recognitions.
Looking ahead, the Maldives is entering a new phase of tourism development aligned with President Muizzu’s vision for high-yield growth. Mega tourism projects, branded residences, and internationally acclaimed resort openings are scheduled for the coming years, with the destination highlighted by Forbes Travel Guide as one of the world’s most exciting luxury hospitality markets for 2026.
Under an evolving national strategy prioritising luxury positioning, premium experiences, and sustainable value creation, Visit Maldives expanded into new niches in 2025, including the destination’s first Super Yacht-focused campaigns. Collaborations with more than 40 international tour operators and airlines further strengthened high-value travel demand, while digital engagement reached record highs through unprecedented global social media performance.
With clear policy direction, fiscal discipline, and targeted global positioning under President Muizzu’s leadership, the Maldives has reinforced its reputation as one of the world’s most resilient and desirable tourism destinations, setting a powerful foundation for sustained economic growth beyond 2026.
