Over 1.1 Million Tourists Choose Resort Stays Amid 1.5 Million Total Arrivals

The Maldives has welcomed 1.5 million tourists so far this year, with the vast majority opting for the nation's signature resort experiences. According to latest statistics from the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, 1,112,766 visitors stayed at resorts, accounting for 72 percent of all arrivals. While luxury resorts remain the primary draw, the local tourism sector continues to show resilience. Guesthouses on inhabited islands attracted 334,016 tourists, representing 22.1 percent of the total market. This trend highlights a growing preference for authentic cultural experiences, which directly injects revenue into local island economies and supports community-based livelihoods. Other accommodation preferences remained modest in comparison, with 34,845 tourists staying in hotels and 28,596 opting for the unique experience of safari vessels. To meet this demand, the Maldives currently operates 1,277 tourist establishments, providing a combined total bed capacity of 67,828 across the archipelago. In terms of source markets, China leads as the top contributor with 284,555 arrivals. Russia follows closely with 222,055 visitors. The United Kingdom remains a key European market with 116,658 arrivals, while Italy and Germany recorded 96,010 and 94,494 visitors respectively. These figures underscore the Maldives' continued appeal as a premier global destination, balancing high-end luxury with a diversifying range of accommodation options that distribute economic benefits across both private resorts and local communities.