The government is preparing targeted marketing campaigns in major tourism markets as authorities seek to limit the impact of the ongoing war in the Middle East on visitor arrivals to the Maldives.
Tourism and Environment Minister Thoriq Ibrahim outlined the plans while speaking at a press conference held by a Special Cabinet Committee formed by the President to assess the potential economic consequences of the war. The committee was established to monitor developments in the region and coordinate measures to address possible disruptions to key sectors of the Maldivian economy.
According to the Minister, information shared by stakeholders in the tourism industry indicates that most booking cancellations relate to travel scheduled for March and April. At the same time, booking data suggests that demand remains relatively stronger for periods beyond April, providing some optimism for the months ahead.
Industry discussions have therefore focused on ways to manage the expected slowdown during these two months. One approach adopted by several resorts has been to allow guests to rebook their stays without additional fees, which has encouraged travellers to postpone trips rather than cancel them altogether.
The government is also preparing promotional campaigns aimed at markets that contribute the largest share of tourist arrivals to the Maldives. These marketing efforts are expected to be carried out in collaboration with Maldivian embassies in key countries, with a particular focus on India, China and Russia.
The war in the Middle East, which began on February 28, has led to airspace closures across parts of the region, disrupting flight routes that serve as major transit corridors for travellers heading to the Maldives.
