Maldives Airports Company (MACL) has revealed 20th September 2020 recorded the highest number of arrivals to the Maldives per single day since border reopening. According to statistics by MACL, a total of 867 passengers arrived at the main Velana International Airport on 20th September.
859 of the visitors arrived on international flights while 8 of the visitors arrived on ad-hoc flights. Arrivals to the island archipelago have been steadily on the rise since the country reopened its borders. Likewise, according to the statistics from the Maldives immigration, a total of 13,516 tourists arrived in the Maldives during the first 2 months after the borders reopened.
The Maldives has made it mandatory for travelers to submit a negative PCR test from 10th September 2020 onwards. Maldives Tourism minister Dr. Abdulla Mausoom earlier revealed a goal to welcome 500,000 visitors to the country in 2020. However, the minister indicated 120,000 is the lowest figure for the remainder of the year.
Meanwhile, the Maldives was also granted the Safe Travels Stamp for being in line with the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) global Safe Travels protocols. Furthermore, the stamp was granted to the country for creating a safe, gradual plan by rebuilding confidence among travelers and ensuring a coordinated approach in restarting the tourism industry. With the COVID-19 tourism regulations in place, and naturally distanced islands allowing for more privacy, the Maldives is believed to be one of the safest holiday destinations.
Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) has been taking up the effort to promote the Maldives in various destinations following the border reopening on 15th July 2020. In addition to that, MMPRC recently concluded a webinar series, which was held in the format of informative discussions and video clips showcasing unique experiences to restore the connection with the travel trade media from key markets.