Tourist Arrivals Maintain Strong Double-Digit Growth Ahead of Peak Season

Tourist arrivals to the Maldives are closing in on the two-million mark, with the latest data showing steady double-digit growth as the country approaches the final and busiest stretch of the year. According to the Ministry of Tourism and Environment’s daily update, arrivals reached 1,988,900 as of 25 November, reflecting a 10 percent increase compared with the same period in 2024.

November has so far recorded 161,966 arrivals, up 12.4 percent from last year. Daily figures throughout the month have remained consistently strong, generally ranging between 5,700 and 7,800 visitors. While the data do not yet show a sharp pre-holiday spike, the overall trend points to a healthy build-up toward December, which traditionally delivers the highest arrivals of the year.

Most major source markets continue to show solid performance. China leads with 309,368 arrivals, followed by Russia, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy. The rankings remain largely unchanged from 2024, indicating stable and reliable demand heading into high season. Resorts account for the largest share of visitors at 73.6 percent, with guesthouses contributing a further 21.6 percent. Operational bed capacity remains steady at 66,415.

Monthly data illustrate a clear upward trajectory across 2025, with every month except February outperforming both 2023 and 2024. October recorded 190,445 arrivals, and November is on course to maintain that momentum. With just a few days left in the month, the industry is positioned to enter December from a strong base rather than relying on a late surge.

As the festive season approaches, the tourism sector appears well-placed for a robust finish to the year. Consistent year-on-year growth suggests that demand remains resilient, and operators are now preparing for December to consolidate what has already been one of the strongest annual performances in recent years.