Rossiya Airlines, a part of the Aeroflot Group will start flights from Moscow to the Maldives from 14th November 2020.
Rossiya Airlines, a part of the Aeroflot Group will start flights to the Maldives from 14th November 2020. According to a tweet by Maldives Airports Company (MACL), Rossiya Airlines will start its direct route from Moscow to to Velana International Airport (VIA). Furthermore, the airline will use its B747-400 aircraft for Maldives operations.
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MACL has further revealed that this new airline will have one flight weekly. Likewise, Rossiya Airlines will operate flights to the Maldives till 27 March 2021. Flights from Moscow to the Maldives via Rossiya Airlines will be operated every Saturday. Rossiya Airlines is one of the largest airlines in Russia.
Aeroflot will also increase its flight frequency to the Maldives from 21st November 2020 onwards. Aeroflot will increase flights from 4 flights per week to 8 flights per week. Thus, with Aeroflot increasing flight frequency to the Maldives and Rossiya Airlines operating flights to the Maldives, will maintain the strong performance of the Russian tourist source market.
Since the Maldives reopened its borders on 15th July 2020, Russia has been the strongest tourist source market. As of 4th November 2020, Maldives recorded 9,519 tourist arrivals from Russia. Which makes Russia the leading market with a share of 21.5%. 2020 also started with the Russian market ranking as the fourth-highest arrival market to the Maldives, with an increase of arrivals by 29.6% compared to January of 2019.
Several airlines have further revealed plans to start flights to the Maldives. Major airlines including; Emirates, Qatar Airways, British Airways, Aeroflot, Air India and more have already started operations to the Maldives. Thus, aiding the island nation reach the ambitious goal of 500,000 tourist arrivals by the end of 2020. As of 4th November 2020, figures from the Maldives’ tourism ministry indicate 21,515 tourists arrived in the island nation in October 2020.
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.
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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.
Liverpool FC, Liverpool Football Club, maldives, mmprc, Tourist Destination, Visit Maldives
