The Maldives recorded a 3.3% increase in tourist arrivals during the first half of December 2024 compared to the same period last year, with 82,484 visitors welcomed between 1 and 14 December. This marks a rise from the 79,863 arrivals seen in the first half of December 2023.
Daily arrivals during this period averaged 5,892, slightly higher than last year’s figures, contributing to the year’s cumulative total of 1,920,119 visitors as of 14 December 2024. With just over 79,000 arrivals needed to reach the government’s 2 million tourist arrival target for the year, industry stakeholders remain optimistic about achieving this milestone.
Progress Towards 2 Million Arrivals
The Maldives has shown consistent growth throughout 2024, with total arrivals increasing by 8.9% compared to the 1.76 million visitors recorded by mid-December 2023. December traditionally marks the beginning of the peak season, with the Maldives seeing an influx of tourists during the holidays. If the current average daily arrival rate of nearly 6,000 continues, the Maldives could reach its ambitious 2 million target before the year ends.
Market Trends and Capacity
China continues to lead as the top source market for the Maldives, contributing 13.4% of total arrivals so far this year, followed closely by Russia and the United Kingdom. India, which held the top spot in previous years, has now fallen to 6.3%.
The Maldives’ accommodation sector remains well-positioned to support the influx of visitors. Resorts account for 67% of operational bed capacity, with guesthouses making up 25%, while hotels and safari vessels represent smaller shares.
Final Push for Year-End Goals
Tourism remains a cornerstone of the Maldives’ economy, and the steady increase in arrivals is a positive indicator for the industry’s recovery and growth. With the final weeks of December underway, all eyes remain on the Maldives’ ability to meet its 2 million arrival goal, a milestone that would reinforce its status as a leading global tourist destination.
