Maldives Records 64,613 Tourists Arrivals in May 2021

Maldives recorded 64,613 tourist arrivals in May 2021, bringing the total number of tourist arrivals during the first 5 months of 2021 to 454,383. According to the statistics from the Maldives’ Ministry of Tourism, tourists spent an average of 9.1 days in the Maldives during the month.

The daily average of tourist arrivals has significantly decreased in May 2021 compared to other months of 2021. This is due to the temporary suspension of tourist vias for travellers from South Asian countries to the Maldives. In addition to that, several countries issued travel warnings for the Maldives over COVID-19 fears.

However, stakeholders and industry experts remain fully confident the Maldives is a safe destination for travellers. With the island nation’s unique geographical advantage the one-island-one-resort concept, travellers can vacation in the tropical holiday destination with natural social distancing.

While the Maldives recorded 64,613 arrivals in May 2021, the total number of tourist arrivals stand at 454,383 for the first 5 months of the year. Compared to the same period of 2020, this is an increase of 18.7%. But, in comparison to the pre-pandemic figures of 2019, arrivals have decreased by 39.3% during the first 5 months.

Also read: 65% of Employees in the Tourism Industry Received the 2nd Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine

3,009 tourists arrived every day on average in the first 5 months of this year. Furthermore, by the end of May 2021, Russia was the Maldives’ leading tourist source market with a market share of 23.3%. The Russian Federation highly contributed to the Maldives’ road to recovery.

Followed by Russia, India ranked in at 2nd place with a market share of 19.7%. For most of the year, neighbouring India was the biggest contributor in terms of tourist arrivals. Other top markets include Germany, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, the United States, United Kingdom, Romania, France and the Czech Republic.

The Maldives aims to welcome 1.5 million tourists in 2021. With arrivals exceeding 450,000, over 30% of this goal has been achieved.

Feature image by Angsana Velavaru

The Maldives, renowned for its breathtaking islands and luxurious resorts, has taken a bold step to enhance its global tourism reach through an exciting new partnership with Liverpool Football Club (LFC). Announced by the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/ Visit Maldives), this multi-year agreement designates the Maldives as the official tourist destination partner of one of the world’s most iconic football clubs, covering both the men’s and women’s teams. This partnership aims to showcase the Maldives to a vast international audience, thereby driving a surge in high-value tourism to the island nation.

A Global Stage for the Maldives

Liverpool FC engages an audience of over 205 million followers globally, giving Visit Maldives an unparalleled platform to attract potential travelers. By leveraging the club’s influential reach, the Maldives plans to draw an additional 100,000 tourists in 2025, generating over $100 million for the country’s tourism revenue. Additionally, on April 2nd, during a high-profile match against Everton, the Maldives will unveil the partnership, with branding prominently displayed on LED boards at Anfield Stadium, ensuring millions of viewers worldwide see it.

This strategic alliance extends beyond brand visibility at LFC matches. Visit Maldives will place billboards across Europe, targeting affluent travelers in key markets, and secure coverage in LFC’s official publications and digital platforms. With LFC’s TV audience exceeding 211 million per season and 53 million followers on social and digital channels, the Maldives positions itself as a top destination for luxury travelers and football fans alike.

Exclusive Experiences and Sports Tourism

Moreover, this partnership offers the Maldives unique opportunities, including the creation of a Liverpool Academy in the Maldives, further boosting sports tourism. The academy will attract aspiring athletes and football fans, blending their love for the sport with the beauty of the Maldives’ stunning surroundings. In addition, additional fan zones, appearances by LFC legends, and interactive digital campaigns will further engage audiences and drive travel interest.

As a part of this effort, Visit Maldives will incorporate these activations into their global events, fairs, and roadshows, building a cohesive branding presence that emphasizes the Maldives as a luxury destination. The partnership will reach over 397 million people per season, with an expected media value of over $17 million annually, thus delivering a significant return on investment.

A Shared Commitment to Sustainability

Beyond tourism, this partnership reflects a mutual dedication to sustainability. Both LFC and the Maldives commit to protecting the environment, with LFC’s “The Red Way” program promoting sustainability in sports, while Visit Maldives champions ocean conservation and eco-friendly tourism. Since the Maldives faces challenges from rising sea levels and climate change, this collaboration highlights the importance of sustainable practices in preserving the island nation’s unique ecosystem.

Ben Latty, LFC’s Chief Commercial Officer, highlights the mutual goals of sustainability and unforgettable experiences in this partnership. Meanwhile, Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO & MD of Visit Maldives, expresses pride in aligning with Liverpool FC, noting that the collaboration will bring the Maldives closer to millions of passionate football fans and offer them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the “Sunny Side of Life.”

Forging a New Era in Global Tourism

This partnership between Visit Maldives and Liverpool FC marks a significant milestone in the Maldives’ tourism marketing strategy. Not only does it strengthen the Maldives’ position as a premier luxury destination, but it also connects with global football fans, inviting them to experience the beauty and tranquility of the islands. Ultimately, by combining world-class tourism with the passion of football, the Maldives aims to capture the hearts of millions, inspiring them to choose the Maldives for their next unforgettable adventure.

Maldives Records 64,613 Tourists Arrivals in May 2021

Also read: 65% of Employees in the Tourism Industry Received the 2nd Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine

Feature image by Angsana Velavaru

Latest

Maldives Signs Partnership with Liverpool FC as Official Tourist Destination

Sirru Fen Fushi: A Mindful Earth Hour Celebration Under the Stars

Kandooma Maldives Marks a Milestone of 40 Remarkable Years

Enjoy the Ultimate Family Easter Getaway at Le Méridien Maldives

Maldives Signs Partnership with Liverpool FC as Official Tourist Destination

A Global Stage for the Maldives

Exclusive Experiences and Sports Tourism

A Shared Commitment to Sustainability

Forging a New Era in Global Tourism