The Maldives recorded 172,985 tourist arrivals in November 2024, reflecting a 5.7% increase compared to 163,658 arrivals in November 2023, according to data released by the Ministry of Tourism.
This growth highlights continued recovery and momentum in the tourism sector, building on the strong performance of earlier months. The daily average of arrivals in November 2024 stood at 5,766, showcasing consistent demand for the Maldives as a premier holiday destination.
Year-on-Year Performance
The November increase contributed to an overall year-to-date total of 1,837,633 tourist arrivals by the end of November 2024, up from 1,683,847 during the same period in 2023—a 9.1% rise. This trend reflects sustained interest from key markets and the Maldives’ strategic efforts to enhance its appeal globally.
Market Dynamics
Key source markets such as China, Russia, and the United Kingdom continued to drive growth, with China reclaiming a significant share of arrivals following its reopening earlier in 2024. The diversification of markets, coupled with targeted promotional campaigns, has played a vital role in supporting tourism growth during traditionally high seasons.
Accommodation Trends
Resorts remained the dominant contributor to bed capacity, accounting for 68% of the operational beds in November 2024. Guesthouses made up 24%, followed by safari vessels (5%) and hotels (3%). The total operational bed capacity across the Maldives reached 62,816, reflecting the ongoing expansion of tourism infrastructure.
With December being a peak tourist season, the Maldives is poised to surpass its yearly targets. The consistent growth in November underscores the country’s ability to adapt to changing market dynamics while maintaining its position as a leading global destination. However, industry experts suggest that addressing challenges such as capacity management and diversifying offerings will be key to sustaining this upward trend.
As the tourism sector remains a cornerstone of the Maldivian economy, November’s performance reaffirms the Maldives’ resilience and enduring appeal in the global market.
