Tourist arrivals to the Maldives reached 70,263 in the first 12 days of July 2025, marking a 16.5 percent increase compared to the same period last year. The rise in arrivals for early July reflects continued momentum for the country’s tourism sector, building on a pattern of steady monthly growth since the start of the year.
July’s strong performance follows a consistent upward trajectory in recent months, with April, May and June also recording double-digit year-on-year increases. The early July surge positions the month to potentially exceed previous years’ totals if the current trend holds through the remaining weeks.
Resorts remained the most popular accommodation type, accounting for nearly three-quarters of total arrivals. Guesthouses also held a significant share of the market, reinforcing their role in supporting decentralised tourism, particularly in outer atolls. A modest number of tourists were hosted by safari vessels and hotels.
China continues to lead as the top source market in 2025, followed by Russia and the United Kingdom. Their contribution, along with steady numbers from Italy, Germany and India, has provided a reliable base of demand. The timing of school holidays in key markets, along with favourable flight connectivity and marketing efforts, may have contributed to July’s notable increase.
By mid-July, total arrivals for the year stood at 1.17 million, a 9.5 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024. The consistent growth across the first half of the year suggests that the Maldives is on track to meet or potentially exceed its annual tourism targets, though much will depend on performance in the second half.
The July data highlights not only seasonal peaks but also the resilience of the Maldives’ tourism industry in maintaining growth amid global economic and geopolitical uncertainties.
