Tourist Arrivals Hit 1.9 Million in 2024, Up 8.9% from Same Period Last Year

The Maldives has welcomed over 1.9 million visitors so far this year, the Ministry of Tourism revealed. As of 14 December, the total number of tourists visiting the country reached 1,920,119, marking an impressive 8.9 percent increase from the same period last year, which saw 1,763,710 visitors.

The average daily arrival rate has been recorded at 5,892 tourists, with December alone showing a steady influx. From 1 to 14 December, 82,484 tourists arrived, a 3.3 percent increase compared to the 79,863 arrivals during the same period in 2023.

China remains the top source market for the Maldives, contributing 257,794 tourists, which represents 13.4 percent of the market share. Russia follows closely with 212,685 visitors (11.1 percent), and the United Kingdom ranks third with 168,460 visitors, accounting for 8.8 percent of the market share.

Other significant contributors include Germany with 148,402 visitors and Italy with 129,513. The list of top 10 source markets is rounded out by India, the United States, France, Spain, and Switzerland.

The peak season for tourism in the Maldives traditionally begins in December. Last year, 194,690 tourists visited the islands in December alone. With just 15 days left in 2024, the government is optimistic about achieving its target of attracting over 2 million visitors. The total number of tourist arrivals in 2023 was recorded at 1,878,543.