Tourist arrivals in the Maldives continue to grow steadily, with November 2024 witnessing a 5.8% increase in arrivals compared to the same period in 2023. According to data from the Ministry of Tourism, 139,175 tourists visited the Maldives from 1st to 24th November this year, compared to 131,517 during the same period last year.
This upward trend reflects a broader increase in tourism, with total arrivals for 2024 up to 24th November reaching 1,803,823—a 9.2% growth compared to the 1,651,706 recorded during the same period in 2023.
Key Market Trends
The growth in arrivals can be attributed to several factors, including the Maldives’ sustained popularity across key source markets. China, Russia, and the United Kingdom continue to lead as significant contributors to tourist inflow. China alone accounted for 13.8% of arrivals as of November 2024, followed by Russia (11.2%) and the United Kingdom (8.7%).
Average Stay and Accommodation
The average duration of stay in 2024 has remained consistent at 7.7 days. Resorts continue to dominate the accommodation sector, accounting for 68% of the total operational bed capacity. The overall operational capacity of tourist facilities increased from 62,690 beds in 2023 to 64,832 beds in 2024, reflecting the expansion of resorts and guesthouses.
Comparing Year-on-Year Performance
While the monthly increase of 5.8% in November 2024 is slightly lower than the double-digit growth seen earlier in the year, the consistent rise highlights the Maldives’ resilience in maintaining its appeal as a preferred travel destination. The year-on-year comparison underscores strong recovery and sustained growth following global disruptions in previous years.
With continued investments in tourism infrastructure, including resort development and upgrades in guesthouse facilities, the Maldives is well-positioned to further solidify its status as a top destination. The upward trajectory of tourist arrivals also bodes well for the country’s economic stability, given the tourism sector’s role as a major revenue generator.
As the Maldives approaches the peak holiday season, these figures reaffirm its standing as a premier global destination. The ongoing efforts to diversify source markets and enhance visitor experiences are likely to maintain this positive momentum into 2025.
