The Ministry of Tourism and Environment has reported 1.11 million tourist arrivals for the first half of 2025, representing a 9.1 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.

According to the Ministry’s latest statistics, June recorded 141,772 arrivals, marking a 15 per cent rise year-on-year. The daily average for June stood at 4,726 visitors, higher than in April but lower than figures from the first four months of the year. This pattern is consistent with the Maldives’ seasonal travel trends, with February recording the highest daily average at 7,646.

Accommodation statistics showed that resorts continued to lead the sector, welcoming 801,764 tourists. Guesthouses followed with 249,788 visitors, while hotels hosted 30,777 tourists and safari vessels recorded 24,975. Other forms of accommodation accounted for 827 arrivals.

China maintained its position as the Maldives’ top source market with a 12.7 per cent share of total arrivals. Russia and the United Kingdom switched positions with 11.4 per cent and 9.8 per cent shares respectively, while Germany and Italy also exchanged ranks with 7.8 per cent and 7.4 per cent respectively.

Although Qatar, a key transit hub for Maldives-bound tourists, was affected by the temporary closure of Doha airspace in late June due to regional tensions, June’s arrival figures showed minimal impact. Looking ahead, July is expected to be significant for the industry as Velana International Airport’s new terminal is set to open, increasing capacity to handle up to 7 million passengers annually.