Minister of Tourism Dr. Abdulla Mausoom has stated that local councils have an important role to play in the introduction of cruise tourism in the Maldives.
Speaking to PSM News, Minister Mausoom said cruise tourism is highly popular in the world and that many travellers wish to come to the Maldives on cruise liners. The minister said that cruise tourism can commence in the country once cruise terminals are established.
Furthermore, Minister Mausoom highlighted that cruise liners currently dock near the Greater Male’ Region and that the government aims to allow cruise liners to stop at different parts of the country, which can be facilitated by Maldivian travel agencies. He noted that passengers on cruise liners will be willing to purchase items during their stops instead of bringing their own items and that discussions have been made for local councils to make accommodations for the passengers, allowing them to generate revenue for their region.
Additionally, Minister Mausoom said regulatory frameworks need to be updated for cruise tourism. He said that discussions have been held with the National Boating Association of Maldives (NBAM) and liveaboard business owners as part of the government's work to review and change the relevant laws and regulations to allow Maldivians to receive equal opportunity in the tourism sector.