Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal revealed that the tourism sector's contribution to state revenue reached MVR 437 million this year, excluding tax income, marking a significant increase from the previous two years' combined earnings of MVR 210 million.

According to the Minister, the Maldives achieved several milestones this year, including its fifth consecutive World's Leading Destination Award and inaugural World's Leading Green Destination Award.

He noted that February proved exceptional for tourist arrivals, with records showing 10,213 visitors in a single day and monthly arrivals totalling 217,392. The Minister indicated that the one-million tourist milestone was reached earlier than ever before, with expectations of hitting the two-million mark by month's end.

During his appearance on MMTV's Bodu Khabaru programme last night, the Minister explained that the revenue was primarily generated through island leasing for resort development and lease period extensions.

The Tourism Ministry has reportedly made progress in addressing undeveloped resort properties, reducing the number from 63 to 58. The Minister disclosed that discussions are ongoing with the Economic Council and Attorney General regarding potential reclamation of islands from developers who cannot demonstrate development capability.

In a development aimed at enhancing hospitality education, the Minister confirmed that L. Hulhimendhoo has been transferred to the National University for development as a training resort, with intentions to establish it as a leading international hospitality training facility.

The Minister acknowledged that the issue of undeveloped awarded islands remains a key challenge, while emphasising continued efforts to maximise state revenue from the tourism sector.