Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC), alongside a prominent delegation of local industry partners, has officially commenced its promotional campaign at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai.
Taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre until 17 September, ATM is the Middle East’s premier travel and tourism event, serving as a vital platform for the island nation to strengthen its presence in this highly lucrative regional market.
This year, the Maldives is represented by a dynamic delegation of 165 industry professionals representing 74 leading travel and tourism companies. According to VMC, the delegation’s focus is heavily geared toward high-level Business-to-Business (B2B) networking. Landmark agreements are scheduled to be signed during the four-day event with major global aviation and travel brands, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, and dnata—the largest travel services provider in the Middle East.
To accommodate this extensive agenda, VMC has unveiled an expansive, double-deck stand spanning 517 square feet. Accessible from four sides, the pavilion features 49 co-exhibitor counters and 52 dedicated B2B meeting tables split across both floors. VMC officials expressed confidence that these structured meetings will drive significant, measurable growth for the Maldivian tourism sector.
Beyond business negotiations, the standout feature of the Maldives’ presence is the pavilion’s breathtaking design, which offers visitors a sensory journey to the archipelago. The double-deck structure is designed to mimic the country’s world-renowned underwater ecosystems, giving attendees the illusion of stepping beneath the surface of a turquoise lagoon. Adorned with soft sand-coloured tones and ocean-blue lighting, the stand features digital screens, 3D models of vibrant marine life, and a highly popular photo backdrop styled like a live, colourful coral garden.
In addition to the visual spectacle, visitors to the pavilion are being introduced to authentic Maldivian hospitality through their tastebuds. A dedicated culinary stall is offering samples of traditional local delicacies, such as fried breadfruit (theluli babukeyo) and spicy roshi (kulhi roshi).