The Maldives recorded growth in tourist arrivals in May despite the impact of the Middle East conflict on regional travel, with visitor numbers surpassing those recorded in the same month last year.

According to the Ministry of Tourism, 142,555 tourists visited the Maldives in May, an increase of 2,344 arrivals compared to the 140,211 tourists recorded in May 2025.

Despite the increase in May arrivals, total tourist arrivals for the year have declined compared to the same period last year. As of the end of May, the Maldives welcomed 951,222 tourists, down 4.1 per cent from the 992,225 arrivals recorded during the same period in 2025.

China remained the Maldives' largest source market, with 144,931 visitors so far this year. It was followed by Russia with 126,712 arrivals, the United Kingdom with 80,580, Italy with 69,723, and Germany with 62,060 visitors.

Resorts continued to account for the largest share of arrivals, accommodating 660,199 tourists, or 71.1 per cent of total visitors. Guesthouses hosted 223,313 tourists, while hotels accommodated 23,539 visitors and safari vessels welcomed 19,987 tourists.

According to the ministry, Velana International Airport remained the country's main gateway, handling 924,645 tourist arrivals so far this year. The second-highest number of arrivals was recorded through Gan International Airport, which welcomed 3,785 tourists.

Tourism authorities have previously noted that regional instability and disruptions to some international flight services affected arrival figures earlier this year. However, arrivals have shown signs of recovery as airlines gradually resume suspended routes. On average, more than 6,200 tourists visited the Maldives each day during the period.