Maldives has participated in the Asian Tourism Fair (ATF-Dhaka), held in Bangladesh, aiming to promote the tourism sector of the Maldives. This marks the first time Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) has participated in this fair.
MMPRC is collaborating with the National Hotel and Guest House Association (NHGAM) and the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) to showcase the Maldives’ offerings for the Bangladeshi market at the ATF, from September 19-21. As the prime partner country of ATF 2024, the Maldives delegation consists of 37 representatives from 23 industry partners. The corporation stated that this is a golden opportunity to promote the leisure and affordable luxury travel of the Maldives, among Asian countries, particularly the emerging Bangladeshi market.
The Maldives stand at ATF 2024 showcases the unique aspects and features of the country, highlighting the diversity of the experiences of tourists, the vibrant marine life, and the natural beauty that makes the Maldives the World’s Leading Destination. The stand features activities such as traditional food tasting options and features local tourism products with a focus on affordable luxury and family travel segments.
As the fair aimed to hold a business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) interactions, Maldives got the opportunity to showcase its sustainable tourism and cultural activities and participate in seminars and workshops related to the field. As such, Maldivian delegates got the chance to partake in the Tourism Skills Convention, a convention held targetting community based tourism markets, tourism markets and professionals.
During the inauguration, of the ATF 2024, Deputy Managing Director of MMPRC Zihuny Rasheed gave an insightful speech about the unique offerings of the Maldives and the importance of the Bangladesh market. Additionally, the MMPRC team gave a valuable presentation pertaining to the Maldives’ offerings to the Bangladeshi travel trade.
Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MMPRC Ibrahim Shiuree stated that the ATF Dhaka offers an exceptional opportunity to engage with the Asian tourism bodies and promote the unique offerings of the Maldives. He expressed MMPRC's commitment to expand its reach in the market, showcase the Maldives as a top-notch destination for travellers seeking unparalleled beauty and world-class hospitality.
MMPRC’s participation in ATF reflects the corporation's dedication to strengthening its presence in Asian markets such as India, Nepal, Bhutan, and the emerging Bangladeshi market, highlighting the event’s regional significance. Maldives welcomed a total of 18,843 arrivals from Bangladesh by the end of July. Bangladesh is currently ranked 14th in total arrivals to the Maldives worldwide, with a market share of 1.6%. Tourist arrivals from Bangladesh to the Maldives have increased by at least 38% this year, demonstrating the market’s resilience and potential for further growth for the Maldives tourism industry.