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ITB Berlin 2024: A Recap of the Trade Show

The world's premium travel trade show, ITB Berlin for the year 2024 just concluded.

ITB Berlin is an event that travel experts from all around the world look forward to. This annual trade has become one of the most important gathering places for experts to exchange their ideas as well as exciting upcoming news in the industry. This year, ITB Berlin was hosted by the beautiful Oman with the slogan ‘beauty has an address’! The ITB Berlin tradeshow for the year 2024 took place from March 5th to 7th. This year, the motto was ‘Pioneer the Transition in Travel & Tourism’.

On the 5th of March, ITB hosted discussions around the main topic ‘global market trends & technological and legal challenges’. On the 7th of March, the discussion was ‘the responsibility of tourism or biodiversity and climate justice’. Apart from these discussions, there were several intriguing aspects to this years ITB Berlin show.

Amazing Experiences from Countries at the ITB Berlin Show

To start with, Phillipines was marked as the country leading the largest delegation at any ITB Berlin show so far. With close to 60 delegations, the country showcased experiences which highlighted cultural richness and sustainable tourism initiatives in the Phillipines. In addition to this, Phillipines also offered one of a kind packages that support sustainable and environmental initiatives.

South Africa also brought their best to the ITB Berlin this year. In addition to showcasing the country’s rich offerings, South Africa also showcased its warm hospitality and breathtaking landscapes. Moreover, the country also brought its lively township experiences to tranquil nature retreats and picturesque wine routes as well as mouthwatering diverse cuisine!

Saudi also celebrated its innovative partnerships this year, taking its tourism industry to new heights. The country established over 15 new agreements including partnership with renowned industry giants such as Trip.com Group, Flynas, and Eurowings, and initiated new cooperation with Visit Bahrain, Visit Oman, and Qatar Tourism. 

Saudi’s participation in ITB Berlin has been one of the most successful in our history and will help turbocharge the remarkable growth our thriving tourism sector has already seen. With more than 55 partners from the tourism ecosystem attending the show, we secured more than 15 new agreements that will increase our connectivity and ensure the world is aware of our dyamic and diverse destinations. Saudi’s growth so far is just the start of our story, a story which will be built on for years to come, says Fahd Hamidaddin – CEO and Board Member of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA).

As usual, the Maldives also brought their best to this years ITB Berlin show. The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) hosted an exclusive ‘Maldives Media Meet’ press conference on the 5th of March at ITB Berlin 2024. The Maldives Media Meet annual press conference is hosted each year at ITB Berlin. The conference is aimed at strengthening connections with key media figures from Germany and other international markets, highlighting the latest information about the Maldives, the innovative products and services, and the experiences that continue to make the Maldives the World’s Leading Destination.

In addition to this, several major companies, hotels and resorts also made exciting announcement about upcoming events. With this, the ITB Berlin 2024 was concluded as another successful year!

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Inside the Maldives’ Bold Presence at WTM London 2024

WTM London 2024 - Maldives bold presence

The Maldives is making a strong impact at the World Travel Market (WTM) London 2024, which runs from November 5 to 7 at Excel London. As one of the world’s largest travel trade events, WTM provides a platform for professionals to connect, share insights, and explore business opportunities. MMPRC is leading the Maldives’ delegation, showcasing the country’s tourism offerings to the global trade.

A Strong Presence at WTM London 2024

This year, the Maldives brings a large team to WTM, with 217 representatives from 91 industry partners. MMPRC has set up a 650 sqm stand to showcase the country’s unique tourism experiences. The stand includes 75 co-exhibitor counters, 55 B2B meeting tables, and three meeting areas. Visitors can mark locations they’ve visited on a special interactive map at the stand.

MMPRC is engaging travel professionals from the UK, a key market for the Maldives. As of September 2024, 125,016 UK visitors accounted for 8.5% of total arrivals. MMPRC highlights the Maldives as a safe and secluded destination, ideal for travelers seeking privacy and natural beauty.

Sustainability at the Core

Sustainability is a central theme at WTM. The Maldives continues to lead in eco-friendly tourism, with initiatives to preserve its delicate marine ecosystems and coral reefs. MMPRC showcases the Maldives’ efforts to maintain its natural beauty through sustainable practices. Eco-friendly resorts and marine conservation programs continue to attract environmentally-conscious travelers.

MMPRC also emphasizes the Maldives’ commitment to sustainability in tourism. The country’s green initiatives resonate with travelers from the UK, where eco-conscious trends are on the rise. This focus helps the Maldives stand out as an attractive destination for responsible tourism.

The ‘World’s Biggest Giveaway’ Campaign

The “World’s Biggest Giveaway” campaign, launched at WTM, offers 52 free holidays for each week of 2025. This year-long initiative aims to engage travelers worldwide, promoting the Maldives’ diverse offerings. The campaign will run through social media contests on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where winners will discover different parts of the Maldives.

Visit Maldives hopes the campaign will attract new visitors, especially as a year-round destination. Each contest will highlight a different aspect of the Maldives, from its beaches to vibrant culture and marine life. The giveaway also focuses on niche tourism segments, such as luxury, romance, and diving.

Addu City’s New Tourism Brand

Addu City unveiled its new tourism brand, “Addu: Beyond the Equator,” at WTM. This rebranding aims to promote Addu as a unique destination, offering a blend of natural beauty, culture, and history. The launch event, attended by Addu City officials and MMPRC representatives, introduced the city’s tourism potential.

Addu is now ready to attract global visitors. Throughout WTM, Addu representatives are meeting with travel agents and tour operators to build partnerships. The city’s rebranding highlights its unique offerings, positioning it as “The Other Side of Maldives.”

New Publications and Strategic Partnerships

At WTM Londong 2024, the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) launched Maldives Finder 2025, a comprehensive travel guide. This magazine promotes the Maldives’ rich culture, scenic landscapes, and tourism offerings. It aims to increase the country’s visibility, providing essential information for travelers.

Additionally, Travelution Magazine, the third edition, was also unveiled at WTM. Published by The Travel Guys, this resource helps travel professionals stay updated on the latest tourism developments in the Maldives.

Strengthening Infrastructure and Partnerships

Manta Air has partnered with Kaani Hotels and Resorts to provide luxury seaplane transfers for guests traveling to North Ari Atoll. This partnership ensures seamless transfers, elevating the guest experience. Known for its comfort and reliability, Manta Air enhances the arrival and departure process, showcasing the Maldives’ beauty from the skies.

In addition, Velana International Airport is expanding. A new terminal, set to open in 2025, will accommodate up to 7 million travelers annually. The airport’s growth supports the Maldives’ rising tourism demand.

Looking Ahead

The Maldives’ participation at WTM London 2024 reflects its commitment to growth, sustainability, and innovation. The country is positioning itself as a leading destination for a variety of traveler needs. Campaigns like “World’s Biggest Giveaway” and the rebranding of Addu City aim to attract visitors in 2025 and beyond.

By focusing on sustainability and diversifying tourism offerings, the Maldives is set to remain a top global destination for years to come.

Feature image by Visit Maldives

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