The Maldives has recorded a notable 8 per cent year-on-year increase in tourist arrivals as of May 20, 2025, signalling continued growth for the country’s tourism industry.

A total of 923,390 tourists visited the Maldives between January and May 20th this year, compared to 854,928 during the same period in 2024.

Monthly data shows a strong rebound in April and May. April 2025 saw a 17.8 per cent rise in tourist arrivals compared to April 2024, while arrivals from May 1st to 20th rose by 12.2 per cent. Although February recorded a slight decline of 1.5 per cent, the overall upward trend suggests growing confidence and demand in the Maldives as a travel destination.

As of May 20, resorts accounted for over 71 per cent of all tourist stays, with 657,289 arrivals. Guesthouses followed with a 23.3 per cent share, while safari vessels and hotels accounted for smaller proportions at 2.5 and 2.9 per cent respectively. The country’s operational bed capacity stands at 63,162, with 1,198 facilities open to guests across various islands and atolls.

China reclaimed its position as the Maldives' largest source market with 107,544 arrivals so far in 2025, maintaining its lead from the same period last year. Russia followed closely with 99,681 visitors, rising to second place and overtaking the United Kingdom, which dropped to third with 94,671 arrivals. Italy, with 80,423 arrivals, moved up to fourth, surpassing Germany, which ranked fifth with 71,005 visitors.

With a strong start to the year, the Government of Maldives is targeting 2.3 million tourist arrivals in 2025. Contributing to this ambition are recent developments such as the launch of direct flights to Chinese cities by the national airline Maldivian, increased focus on expanding access to European markets, and the anticipated opening of the new terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) in October 2025.