Tourist arrivals to the Maldives have increased steadily, according to the latest statistics released by the Ministry of Tourism and Environment. As of 12 August, total arrivals for the year have reached 1.37 million, reflecting a 9 per cent rise compared to the same period in 2024.

During the first 12 days of August, 79,831 tourists visited the country, a 1.8 per cent increase on last year. The month’s highest daily arrivals were recorded on 2 August with 7,036. The current daily average stands at 6,653, close to peak-season levels seen earlier this year, with February still leading at 7,646.

Resorts remain the preferred accommodation, hosting just over one million guests so far, followed by more than 300,000 arrivals at guesthouses. Hotels have received around 36,500 visitors, and safari vessels over 28,000.

China continues to be the top source market, contributing 15.1 per cent of total arrivals, followed by Russia with 11.9 per cent and the United Kingdom with 9.2 per cent. Italy has moved ahead of Germany for fourth place with 7.2 per cent, while Germany now accounts for 6.9 per cent.

The country’s strong tourism performance has been further supported by developments in air connectivity. Velana International Airport’s new Terminal 1 recently welcomed its first foreign carrier, Air Arabia, marking a significant milestone since its opening on 26 July. The airline, which currently operates one daily service to the Maldives, plans to double its flights to two per day from 27 October. 

The upgraded terminal, equipped with modern boarding bridges, e-gates and advanced baggage handling systems, is expected to boost capacity and further strengthen the Maldives’ position as a premier global destination.