The Maldives and India have engaged in discussions to enhance tourist arrivals from India and to strengthen bilateral relations. The discussions were held between the Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal, India's Minister of Civil Aviation Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the Minister of Culture and Minister of Tourism of India. The meetings were held during Minister Faisal's official visit to India.
In an interview with PSM News, Minister Faisal revealed that the primary focus of the discussions was to boost tourist arrivals to the Maldives and to attract investments to further develop the tourism sector. The discussions also covered providing training and scholarships in tourism-related fields and expanding flight operations by introducing more airlines from India. Additionally, the minister advocated for increasing the frequency of scheduled flights by existing airlines operating between the Maldives and India.
The Welcome India roadshow commenced in New Delhi on July 30 and will continue in Mumbai on August 1, concluding in Bangalore on August 3. The event is designed to enhance the Maldives' profile as a premier vacation destination for Indian travelers through activities in these three major cities. The high-profile event will gather key industry stakeholders from both nations, offering a platform to foster new partnerships, strengthen existing relationships, and showcase the exceptional beauty and diversity of the Maldives. The roadshow has seen participation from 150 tourism-related organisations. Minister Faisal expressed optimism about the anticipated increase in Indian tourists, attributing it to the government’s ongoing promotional efforts. He also disclosed plans to conduct more promotional activities in India to further advertise the Maldives.
India is a vital source market for the Maldives, with over 70,000 tourists from India visting tthe Maldives last year. India was the leading source of tourist arrivals to the Maldives last year and is currently among the top six countries contributing to tourist arrivals. The roadshow intends to capitalise on this growing demand and solidify the position of the Maldives as a top-of-mind destination for Indian travellers.