Visit Maldives announce roadshow to boost Indian arrivals

Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/Visit Maldives) has partnered with Manta Air for an exclusive roadshow in India.

The 'Explore Maldives' Roadshow, led by the Visit Maldives brand is set to take place at the prestigious Shangri-La Hotel in Bengaluru, India on June 26, 2024.

The roadshow represents a significant step in strengthening the tourism bond between India and the Maldives.

The show will underscore Maldives as a premier travel destination, engaging over 150 top travel agents, tour operators, and representatives from both travel and mainstream media in India.

Major resort chains that are set to participate in the roadshow include;

• Universal Resorts
• Minor Hotels
• NH Collection
• Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts
• Sun Siyam Resorts
• Villa Hotels & Resorts
• PULSE Hotels & Resorts
• AAA Hotels & Resorts
• Angsana
• COMO
• RIU, and may others

"India stands out as one of the fastest-growing outbound tourism markets today, and it remains a pivotal market for the Maldives," said Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO and Managing Director of MMPRC.

"This upcoming event will undoubtedly serve as a crucial platform for tourism industry stakeholders to connect with the Indian market and showcase the Maldives as a premier destination, highlighting the unique offerings we are blessed with."

India had been the top tourist market to the Maldives from 2020 to 2023, but slipped to sixth rank this year owing to tensions between India and the Maldives.

Relations between the South Asian allies soured after three Maldivian deputy ministers made disparaging remarks on social media against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier in 2024 - after which Indian netizens and celebrities alike launched a 'Boycott Maldives' campaign.

The relations however, appear to be on the mend now with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu among chief attendees to the swearing-in ceremony of Modi; who was elected for a third time recently.

The leaders were also seen exchanging smiles and pleasantries at the sidelines of Modi's swearing-in ceremony, while the two on various occasions had spoken to respective media, stating they looked forward to working together.