China’s Xiamen Airlines is set to launch direct flights to the Maldives. This initiative revealed following President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s state visit to China, marks an important step in increasing the number of Chinese tourists visiting the Maldives.
During his visit, President Dr. Muizzu engaged in high-level discussions focused on boosting the tourism sector. He stated, “There were many discussions to increase Chinese tourists. Discussions were held at the highest level to increase flights, and Xiamen Air is scheduled to start flights this spring.” This announcement comes as a promising development for the Maldivian tourism industry, which has been actively seeking to diversify and increase its visitor base.
The President also noted that other airlines are planning to increase direct flights. These concerted efforts are part of a broader strategy to double the number of Chinese tourists, a target set before the global health outbreak. Prior to the pandemic, the Maldives experienced a significant influx of tourists from China, making it a crucial market for the nation’s tourism sector.
Until now, only one Chinese airline operated direct flights to the Maldives, specifically from Beijing. The introduction of Xiamen Air into the Maldivian skies is expected to not only facilitate easier travel but also significantly contribute to the recovery and growth of the tourism industry post-pandemic.
In 2019, before the outbreak, the Maldives welcomed a total of 284,029 tourists, with Chinese visitors accounting for a significant 16 per cent of the total tourism. The launch of Xiamen Air’s direct flights is thus seen as a key step in reviving and surpassing these pre-pandemic numbers, further strengthening the ties between China and the Maldives in the realm of tourism and trade.
