Search
Close this search box.

Maldivian Introduces Direct Flights to Three Major Cities in China

Maldivian Direct Flights to China launched with new routes

The national Airline of Maldives; Maldivian has launched direct flights to three major cities in China—Chengdu, Beijing, and Shanghai. This expansion of the airline’s international network follows the addition of the Airbus A330-200, Maldivian’s first wide-body aircraft. As a result, the new routes will begin in January 2025, with the first flight to Chengdu scheduled for 22 January, followed by Beijing on 24 January, and Shanghai on 27 January.

Ismail Amrah Umar, Chief Commercial Officer of Maldivian Airlines, commented on the expansion:

“The launch of these direct flights to China represents a significant achievement in our expansion strategy. By connecting the Maldives directly with three major Chinese cities, we are not only enhancing accessibility for Chinese tourists but also strengthening the cultural and economic ties between our nations.”

The Airbus A330-200, which carries up to 260 passengers across Business, Premium Economy, and Economy classes, will operate these flights. Additionally, the aircraft offers a 10-tonne cargo capacity, which further supports the airline’s expanding operations. Consequently, the new aircraft enables Maldivian to enhance its service offerings and reach even more destinations.

Celebrating the Launch with Special Promotional Fares

To celebrate the new routes, Maldivian is offering special promotional fares. These are as follows:

  • Male’-Chengdu: USD 688 return
  • Male’-Beijing: USD 788 return
  • Male’-Shanghai: USD 777 return

These promotional fares include a 40 kg baggage allowance and are valid for travel from 22 January to 4 February 2025, depending on the destination. Therefore, passengers can take advantage of these limited-time offers to explore China’s most vibrant cities.

This expansion of Maldivian’s international network will play a crucial role in attracting more visitors to the Maldives, particularly given the long-standing popularity of the destination among Chinese travelers. Additionally, it will benefit the country’s economy, as tourism remains a key sector in the nation’s growth. Moreover, the new routes are expected to further strengthen the Maldives’ position as a leading tourist destination in the region.

With these new routes and the Airbus A330-200, Maldivian strengthens its position as a key player in the region’s aviation industry. As a result, the airline continues to offer more travel options for international passengers, ensuring seamless connections between the Maldives and major global cities.

Ad - immaldives.com

Latest

Marriott International Celebrates Second Wave of Graduates in Maldives Apprenticeship Program

Marriott International Celebrates Second Wave of Graduates in Maldives Apprenticeship Program

On April 19, 2025, Marriott International celebrated the success of 31 apprentices who graduated from the second batch of its Maldives Apprenticeship Program. The special ceremony took place at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa and featured key dignitaries, including Hon. Ibrahim Waheed, the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Arts, along with other officials from the Ministry of Youth Empowerment and the Maldives Institute of Technology (MIT). Additionally, Mark Fletcher, Marriott’s Area Director of Human Resources for Singapore and the Maldives, also attended to acknowledge the graduates’ achievements.

Hon. Ibrahim Waheed highlighted the program’s role in empowering the youth of the Maldives, commenting, “Today, we celebrate 31 apprenticeship graduates. These are 31 futures redefined—each a testament to what happens when opportunity meets action. To our apprentices, you step forward as ambassadors of possibility. And to Marriott International, thank you for not just supporting this program, but for championing it—your commitment to mentorship and local capacity building is truly admirable.”

A Collaborative Effort in Hospitality Training

The Marriott Apprenticeship Program is a collaborative effort between Marriott International, the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment, and MIT. This 10-month program provides participants with a well-rounded education that includes theoretical lessons at MIT and hands-on experience at various Marriott resorts across the Maldives. Specifically, the apprentices received training in several key hospitality sectors, including front office operations, culinary arts, food and beverage service, and housekeeping.

By partnering with the Maldivian government, Marriott became the first international hospitality brand to support such an apprenticeship initiative in the country, reinforcing its dedication to developing local talent. In this way, the program supports Marriott’s broader mission to cultivate the next generation of leaders in the fast-growing Maldivian tourism industry.

Practical Experience Across Marriott’s Maldives Resorts

The apprentices completed their theoretical training at MIT before gaining practical experience at Marriott’s luxurious properties in the Maldives, such as The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands; The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort; JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa; W Maldives; Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa; Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa; and The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort.

True to the company’s guiding principle of “We Put People First,” Marriott focuses on helping young professionals grow and succeed. As a result of their hard work, all the graduates received Level-3 certification, officially recognized by the Maldives Qualification Authority (MQA). This certification acknowledges their successful completion of both the academic and practical components of the program, preparing them for careers in the hospitality industry.

Looking Ahead to a Bright Future

Mark Fletcher reflected on the program’s origins, noting, “When we launched this program in 2023, it was envisioned as a pilot, a leap of faith, grounded in belief. A belief in crafting talents of Maldivian youth, belief in the strength and collaboration, and belief in Marriott’s commitment to “take care” – not just our people but the communities where we serve. What began as an initiative is now a movement, and Marriott International is proud to be the first international hospitality brand to officially launch such apprenticeship program in the Maldives”

Ultimately, this graduation marks a key milestone in Marriott’s efforts to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the Maldives’ tourism industry by fostering a talented and skilled local workforce. Marriott looks forward to watching its graduates embark on successful careers and continue playing an essential role in the growth of the country’s hospitality sector.

Ad - immaldives.com
No more posts to show