Maldives welcomed its first cruise ship since recent regulatory changes by Maldives Association of Yacht Agents (MAYA), with the Italian-flagged AIDA arriving from Muscat, Oman, on 8 December 2024.

As per a post by Maldives Immigration, 2319 passengers were granted permission to disembark from the cruise. Immigration said that Seaport Division officers had embarked on the en-route clearance process from Muscat, Oman, from December 4th to 8th, 2024.

The AIDA’s visit marks a significant step in diversifying the Maldives' tourism offerings. The influx of tourists is expected to benefit local businesses, including restaurants, souvenir shops, guest houses, and retail outlets in Malé and Hulhumalé, while contributing to foreign reserves and economic growth.

This milestone aligns with the Maldives' ongoing efforts to strengthen its tourism sector, which recently earned accolades such as the World's Leading Destination for the fifth consecutive year.