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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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Marriott Completes First KURIMAGU Leadership Program in the Maldives

KURIMAGU Leadership Program

Marriott International proudly announces the successful completion of the inaugural KURIMAGU Leadership Program. This milestone underscores the company’s commitment to nurturing and empowering local Maldivian talent within the hospitality industry. The graduation ceremony took place on 29 November 2024, at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. It celebrated the achievements of the program’s first cohort. The cohort included 29 associates from Marriott’s resorts across the Maldives.

Mark Fletcher, Area Director of Human Resources for Singapore & Maldives at Marriott International, expressed his pride in the program’s success:

“We are incredibly proud of the progress made by the first cohort of KURIMAGU participants. KURIMAGU is more than just a leadership development program – it’s a platform for Maldivian talent to thrive. By empowering our associates with the tools and support to excel in leadership roles, we are shaping the future of Marriott while contributing to the long-term growth and prosperity of the Maldives’ hospitality industry. This is a critical part of our ongoing commitment to investing in and developing local talent for sustainable success”

A Year of Dynamic Learning and Growth

The KURIMAGU Leadership Program is a transformative 12-month initiative designed to develop the leadership potential of local talent. It prepares participants for key roles within Marriott and the broader hospitality industry. Graduates came from renowned properties including Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, W Maldives, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort & Spa, and The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. Marriott’s continued support for this initiative highlights its dedication to creating a pipeline of future leaders for the Maldives hospitality sector.

Over the past year, participants have engaged in an enriching learning experience. The curriculum included both in-person and virtual training sessions, self-paced e-learning, structured mentoring, cross-disciplinary exposure, and collaborative group learning. Participants also had opportunities to interact with senior leaders through insightful fireside chats. During these chats, they received valuable feedback on their career progression. Mentorship from seasoned hoteliers guided their development, fostering both personal and professional growth. This collaborative environment encouraged participants to share experiences. Learn from each other, and build lasting networks that enhanced their leadership capabilities.

Marriott International remains dedicated to nurturing local talent and fostering a culture of growth and leadership. The KURIMAGU Leadership Program reflects Marriott’s core value of “Putting People First” and contributes to the long-term success of both the company and the Maldives’ hospitality industry. Through initiatives like KURIMAGU, Marriott International aims to build a strong pipeline of talented individuals, ready to assume greater responsibilities and lead the future of the hospitality sector in the Maldives and beyond.

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