ITB Berlin 2025: The Maldives, and Trends Shaping Global Tourism

The world of tourism evolves rapidly, driven by innovation, sustainability, and a shift in traveler preferences. As one of the leading platforms for showcasing these transformations, ITB Berlin 2025 stands as the premier trade show for the global tourism industry. Scheduled from March 4 to March 6, 2025, the event will bring together over 400 international speakers and thousands of exhibitors from around the world. Together, they will discuss the future of travel. Among the key players is the Maldives, which will make a significant impact at this year’s event with a bold presence aimed at further cementing its position as a global tourism leader.

ITB Berlin 2025: The Global Tourism Hub

ITB Berlin, the largest travel trade fair in the world, has 95% of its display space already booked. The event will feature exhibitors from 165 countries, with a significant focus on Southern Europe, Asia, and Africa. For 2025, ITB will delve into themes like sustainability, digital transformation, and the role of artificial intelligence in tourism. These topics will, in turn, offer valuable insights into how the industry shapes up for the future.

Moreover, the ITB Berlin Convention will focus on these challenges. Over 400 speakers will address topics such as eco-friendly tourism, AI in the customer journey, and digital innovation. As Albania takes the spotlight as the host country, attendees can expect an engaging and dynamic experience. Additionally, new event formats like ITB Transition Labs and guided tours will highlight the latest industry trends.

The Maldives at ITB Berlin 2025: A Growing Presence

The Maldives will make a splash at ITB Berlin 2025 with its largest-ever representation at the event. This participation builds on the Maldives’ growing prominence in global tourism. Following significant engagements at events like ITB China 2024 and ATM Dubai 2024. At ITB Berlin 2025, the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) is spearheading a major promotional campaign. The campaign features stunning visuals of the islands on 200 taxis throughout Berlin. Running in tandem with the Berlinale and the trade show, this campaign will reach an estimated 600,000 attendees. Ultimately raising awareness of the Maldives as a top travel destination.

Adding to its strong presence, Visit Maldives will take part in ITB Berlin alongside a delegation of 200 stakeholders from 89 tourism industry companies. This marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to solidify its global footprint and expand its influence across key markets.

Additionally, the Maldives’ presence will include seminars, panel discussions, and media events, all aimed at strengthening its relationships with global industry partners. As Minister Thoriq Ibrahim heads to Berlin for the event, he will meet with both national and international partners. Together, they will discuss new opportunities to promote the Maldives as a leading travel destination and reinforce the nation’s commitment to global tourism.

The nation will also unveil innovative marketing initiatives such as the Visit Maldives Shop, Visit Maldives Calendar, and Visit Maldives Academy. Each initiative is designed to engage audiences and enhance the traveler experience. Furthermore, the Maldives will particularly focus on targeting new traveler segments, including MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events), solo travelers, and groups. Additionally, the country will launch sustainable events like the Burunu Boma fishing competition.

Key Global Tourism Trends at ITB Berlin 2025

Several significant trends will dominate discussions at ITB Berlin 2025. These trends will shape the future of global tourism. For the Maldives, they align with its strategy of positioning itself as a sustainable and innovative destination.

Sustainability: As travelers become more eco-conscious, the Maldives continues to position itself as a leader in sustainable tourism. The country has received accolades as the World’s Leading Green Destination. At ITB Berlin 2025, the Maldives will showcase its eco-friendly initiatives, including its commitment to carbon-neutral tourism, preserving marine ecosystems, and promoting eco-resorts. The ITB Berlin Convention will highlight the importance of green destinations, and discussions will focus on how businesses can balance profitability with environmental responsibility.
Emerging Technology: The tourism sector is undergoing a digital revolution, with AI and automation leading the charge. ITB Berlin will showcase innovations in smart hotel automation, dynamic pricing tools, and virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies.
Economic Shifts and Resilience: Despite economic uncertainties, the global hotel industry remains resilient. ITB Berlin will explore how businesses can adapt to changing traveler preferences. New business models, such as direct bookings, metasearch engines, and subscription services, will take center stage.
Diversity and Inclusion: As the world becomes more interconnected, the travel industry embraces diversity. At ITB Berlin, attendees will explore how brands can cater to a wide range of traveler needs.

Tourism’s Economic Impact and Future Ambitions

Tourism remains the Maldives’ primary economic driver, contributing nearly 30% of the nation’s GDP. As one of the most sought-after destinations for luxury and eco-tourism, the Maldives continues to see growth. Tourism receipts increased by 15% in 2024. Additionally, the country achieved a milestone with one million annual tourist arrivals in 2024. At ITB Berlin 2025, the Maldives will not only showcase its luxurious resorts and stunning landscapes, but it will also highlight its commitment to preserving natural beauty while fostering a sustainable tourism model.

Looking ahead, the Maldives will continue to strengthen its position in the global tourism market. The country has set its sights on becoming the host country for ITB Berlin 2026. Having previously hosted the event in 2016, the Maldives aims to take on a more prominent role in the event’s logistics. This will ensure that its culture, natural beauty, and innovations are showcased on the world stage.

Shaping the Future of Travel

As ITB Berlin 2025 approaches, the global tourism industry is set to gather and explore the future of travel. With trends like sustainability, digital transformation, and emerging technologies leading the way, the event will be a pivotal moment for industry leaders to exchange ideas and set the course for what lies ahead. This year’s discussions will highlight how businesses and destinations can innovate and adapt to meet evolving traveler demands and environmental challenges.

For the Maldives, participating in ITB Berlin offers an opportunity to reaffirm its role as a leader in sustainable tourism. While the country’s commitment to eco-friendly practices remains at the heart of its efforts, the Maldives also stands ready to embrace digital innovations that are redefining the traveler experience. As global tourism continues to evolve, ITB Berlin 2025 will showcase how destinations like the Maldives are contributing to these broader shifts, ultimately influencing the industry’s trajectory for years to come.

As the world celebrates Global Wellness Day on June 14, 2025, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa offers a special opportunity for guests to reconnect with themselves and the surrounding nature. Located on the tranquil Vagaru Island in the Shaviyani Atoll, the resort will host a three-day wellness retreat, led by renowned holistic healer Dr. Lisa Schuster, from June 14 to 16, 2025.

A Perfect Blend of Mindfulness, Movement, and Self-Care

To begin with, this immersive event invites guests to slow down, breathe deeply, and embrace the peaceful beauty of the Maldives, providing the perfect balance of mindfulness, movement, and self-care. Known for integrating wellness into every aspect of its guest experience, JW Marriott Maldives has positioned itself as an ideal destination to celebrate the values of Global Wellness Day. Furthermore, the resort’s commitment to well-being ensures that every guest leaves feeling rejuvenated.

Mohit Dembla, General Manager of JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, shared his excitement about the event, saying:

“At our resort, wellbeing is woven into every aspect of the guest experience and embraced as a way of life. This collaboration with Dr. Lisa Schuster brings together the power of nature, mindfulness, and purposeful self-care to offer guests a truly enriching experience in honor of Global Wellness Day.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Schuster, a medical doctor based in Munich, brings a holistic approach to wellness, incorporating acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and sound therapy. Her Sound Bath Meditations, which are known for their calming and powerful effects, use crystal singing bowls and other high-vibration instruments to help guests release stress, heal emotional trauma, and reconnect with their inner selves. Through this process, she creates a unique healing experience that nurtures both the body and mind, enabling a truly transformative journey for all participants.

Dr. Schuster’s Healing Philosophy

Dr. Schuster shared her philosophy, saying:

“True wellbeing begins with presence. When we slow down and truly listen to our inner world, we unlock the body’s innate ability to heal and transform. The natural beauty and serenity of JW Marriott Maldives make it the perfect place for this inward journey.”

Her words, therefore, highlight the importance of mindfulness and deep self-reflection in achieving holistic wellness.

Throughout the retreat, guests will follow a thoughtfully designed itinerary focused on relaxation and rejuvenation. Each morning will begin with sound therapy and guided breathwork, followed by wellness elixirs and refreshing bites to energize the body. In the evening, sound bathing sessions at Pool 18 will provide a serene space for reflection and quietude, allowing guests to absorb the peaceful atmosphere around them. Additionally, the resort’s beautiful surroundings enhance the entire experience, adding an extra layer of calm and relaxation that only the Maldives can provide.

Wellness for Every Guest

For those seeking more active wellness, JW Marriott Maldives offers a variety of fitness classes, including Mat Pilates, HIIT, and guided running sessions. These activities ensure guests stay energized and engaged throughout the event. They complement the more meditative sessions and offer guests a balanced approach to their wellness journey. Moreover, these fitness options provide a holistic way to promote overall well-being, whether through physical exertion or mindful movement.

Beyond the activities themselves, the setting contributes just as much. More than just a destination for relaxation, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa serves as a sanctuary for those seeking a deeper connection with themselves and nature. The resort boasts 60 overwater and beach villas, each with a private pool and stunning ocean views, offering guests ultimate privacy and luxury. Likewise, the personalized service provided by dedicated Thakuru (butlers) ensures that each guest’s needs receive attention and care, creating an experience that feels both indulgent and intimate.

For guests wishing to enhance their wellness journey, the Stay in the Moment package offers a curated experience designed to awaken the senses. It includes daily breakfast, a three-course dinner at the resort’s signature restaurant Aailaa, an 80-minute aromatherapy treatment at Spa by JW, private yoga sessions, wellness consultations, and the signature JW Garden to Glass cocktail experience. The package is available with a minimum four-night stay, ensuring ample time to unwind and reconnect with nature. As a result, guests can leave feeling fully refreshed and with a deeper sense of peace.

A Meaningful Escape to Reconnect and Recharge

Whether guests seek to dive deeper into wellness practices, unwind in a tropical paradise, or simply take a moment to reset, JW Marriott Maldives provides the ideal setting for a rejuvenating Global Wellness Day experience. With every detail thoughtfully crafted, guests will leave feeling renewed and centered. Consequently, the resort offers a perfect opportunity to take a step back from the stresses of daily life and truly reconnect with oneself.

Not only does this event align with the essence of Global Wellness Day, but it also reinforces JW Marriott’s ongoing dedication to purposeful living. By combining natural beauty, expert guidance, and intentional experiences, the retreat promises a wellness journey that feels personal, transformative, and lasting.

From Maldives to the World: Inside ITB Berlin 2025, Key Trends Shaping Global Tourism

ITB Berlin 2025: The Global Tourism Hub

The Maldives at ITB Berlin 2025: A Growing Presence

Key Global Tourism Trends at ITB Berlin 2025

Tourism’s Economic Impact and Future Ambitions

Shaping the Future of Travel

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