The Maldives has solidified its reputation as a key draw at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), an influential event currently underway at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Representatives from Maldivian businesses have described this year's edition as an unparalleled success, with engagement levels surpassing those of previous years.
Opening on 28 April, the Arabian Travel Market serves as a premier platform for the global tourism sector to promote leading destinations. The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) has consistently leveraged this prominent stage to highlight the nation's extraordinary appeal as a world-class travel destination. Thousands of visitors have been drawn to the Maldivian pavilion daily, an achievement that reflects both the meticulous preparations and the heightened interest in partnerships with Maldivian businesses.
For Resort Life Travel, a prominent Maldivian tour operator, this year's event underscores the broader significance of ATM in bolstering tourism strategies. Mohamed Shaaz Waleed, the company's Chief Executive, commended the event's strong turnout and promising business prospects. "The stall setup is exceptional this year," he observed. "Compared to previous editions, the attendance has significantly improved. Dubai's emergence as a global hub has amplified the pavilion's visibility and impact."
The momentum has also been noted by Mohamed Firaq, Chief Executive of Inner Maldives, one of the country's largest travel agencies. He highlighted the collective strength of the Maldivian delegation in presenting a comprehensive view of the nation's tourism sector. "The Maldives has been prominently showcased, with sponsorships playing a key role," he explained. "The event brings together resort owners, operators, travel agencies, safari boat operators, and guesthouses, providing a unified front for the industry."
This cohesive representation is evident in the breadth of the Maldivian participation, which includes 110 companies and 235 delegates. While the iconic resorts remain central to the nation's international appeal, the contributions of guesthouses have steadily gained recognition. Abdulla Nasheed, President of the National Hotels and Guest House Association, highlighted the opportunities created for guesthouses at the market. "A significant number of guesthouses are participating this year, demonstrating how such fairs play an essential role in attracting international guests," he said.
The success of the Maldivian pavilion extends beyond visitor numbers. Nasheed expressed his appreciation for the comprehensive efforts of MMPRC in coordinating the nation's presence at ATM. Cultural presentations and artistic showcases have further enriched the pavilion's appeal, earning it praise as one of the Maldives' most impactful representations at an international event.