The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/Visit Maldives), in collaboration with the National Hotel and Guest House Association (NHGAM) and the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO), has concluded its participation at the Asian Tourism Fair (ATF) 2024 in Dhaka, which took place from September 19th to 21st. As the prime partner country of the event, the Maldives delegation consisted of 37 representatives from 23 industry partners, aiming to promote leisure and affordable luxury travel, particularly targeting the emerging Bangladeshi market.
ATF Dhaka serves as a platform for tourism networking and collaboration among private sector entities, organisations, and development agencies across Asian countries. This year’s event included the main B2B and B2C travel trade exhibition, alongside sideline events such as seminars, workshops, cultural exchanges, and exhibitions on sustainable tourism initiatives. A tourism skills convention and community-based tourism mart were also held, targeting professionals and marketers within the tourism industry.
At the Maldives stand, the destination’s offerings were showcased with a focus on affordable luxury and family-friendly travel. The stand featured activities such as traditional food tastings and highlighted the Maldives’ diverse experiences, marine life, and natural beauty.
Zihuny Rasheed, Deputy Managing Director of MMPRC, emphasised the significance of the Bangladeshi market during her speech at the inauguration of the fair. She noted that “Visit Maldives is committed to promoting the Maldives as a premier travel destination and working with NHGAM and MATATO to create strategic partnerships that highlight the country’s beauty and sustainability.”
Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO and Managing Director of MMPRC, echoed this sentiment, stating, “ATF Dhaka provided an opportunity to engage with tourism bodies across Asia and promote the Maldives’ offerings. We are dedicated to expanding our presence in this market and presenting the Maldives as a key destination for travelers.”
The Maldives’ participation in ATF 2024 reflects its efforts to strengthen its presence in Asian markets such as India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. As of July 30th, 2024, the Maldives recorded 18,843 tourist arrivals from Bangladesh, representing a 38% increase compared to the previous year. Bangladesh is currently the 14th largest source market for the Maldives, with a 1.6% share of total arrivals.
