The month of July 2024 marked a significant upturn in tourist arrivals to the Maldives, reflecting a robust recovery in the tourism sector. According to the latest statistics released by the Ministry of Tourism, the Maldives welcomed 167,528 tourists in July 2024, representing a 15% increase compared to July 2023, when 145,620 tourists arrived.
Comparative Analysis with Previous Years
This growth is a continuation of the positive trend observed throughout 2024. The cumulative tourist arrivals from January to July 2024 totalled 1,209,364, a 10.3% increase over the same period in 2023, which saw 1,096,838 arrivals. In comparison, the first seven months of 2022 recorded 964,371 arrivals. These figures highlight the Maldives’ sustained appeal as a premier tourist destination, despite global economic uncertainties and other challenges.
Monthly Breakdown
• January: 192,385 arrivals in 2024, an 11.5% increase from 2023’s 172,499.
• February: 217,392 arrivals in 2024, a significant 22.2% rise from 2023’s 177,915.
• March: 194,227 arrivals in 2024, up 11.9% from 2023’s 173,514.
• April: 168,366 arrivals in 2024, a modest 2.4% increase from 2023’s 164,357.
• May: 119,875 arrivals in 2024, a slight decrease of 0.9% from 2023’s 120,959.
• June: 123,284 arrivals in 2024, up 2.4% from 2023’s 120,363.
• July: 167,528 arrivals in 2024, a 15% increase from 2023’s 145,620.
Top Markets and Average Stay
China, Russia, and the United Kingdom remain the top three source markets for tourists visiting the Maldives. China leads with 165,761 arrivals, followed by Russia with 129,445, and the UK with 106,792. The average duration of stay for tourists in 2024 is approximately 7.7 days.
Tourist Accommodation
As of August 4, 2024, the Maldives boasts a diverse range of tourist accommodations with a total operational bed capacity of 62,608. This includes:
• 182 resorts with 44,329 beds,
• 14 hotels with 1,956 beds,
• 872 guesthouses with 14,707 beds, and
• 153 safari vessels with 2,980 beds.
Future Outlook
The growth trajectory in tourist arrivals is expected to continue as the Maldives enhances its tourism offerings and markets its unique attractions globally. With initiatives aimed at improving sustainability and the overall tourist experience, the Maldives is well-positioned to maintain its status as a top travel destination.
July 2024’s robust growth in tourist arrivals underscores the Maldives’ resilience and ongoing appeal in the global tourism market. The continuous upward trend in visitor numbers bodes well for the economic future of the nation, further cementing its reputation as a world-renowned tourist hotspot.
