Tourist arrivals to the Maldives have increased by 14.6 per cent during the first six days of the year, according to the latest statistics released by the Ministry of Tourism and Environment.

The data shows that as of 6 January 2026, a total of 43,481 tourists had arrived in the Maldives, with an average of 7,247 visitors per day. January 3 recorded the highest number of arrivals during the period, with 8,082 tourists entering the country on that day alone.

In terms of entry points, Velana International Airport (VIA) accounted for the vast majority of arrivals, handling 42,828 tourists. This was followed by Maafaru International Airport with 200 arrivals, Gan International Airport with 165 arrivals, and Hanimaadhoo International Airport with 118 tourists.

Accommodation data indicates that resorts continue to dominate the tourism sector, hosting 69 per cent of all arrivals. Guesthouses accounted for 25.7 per cent of tourists, while hotels accommodated 3.1 per cent. A further 2.1 per cent of visitors stayed on safari vessels.

By nationality, Russian tourists made up the largest share of arrivals at 21 per cent, followed by Italy at 16.2 per cent. The United Kingdom accounted for 6.6 per cent of arrivals, Germany for 5.5 per cent, and the United States for 3.4 per cent.

With the Maldives recording a landmark 2.25 million tourist arrivals in 2025, the tourism sector is expected to maintain strong momentum into 2026. Officials anticipate that arrivals will receive an additional boost as airlines complete their transition to the new terminal at Velana International Airport, allowing the full impact of the expanded facilities to be realised.