Tourism Industry Highlights for July 2021

We have rounded up the tourism industry highlights for July 2021. Looking at the statistics, tourist arrivals have increased in July 2021 compared to June 2021.

One of the leading tourist source markets, India made comeback in July as the Maldives reopened its borders for South Asian travellers. Arrivals saw a dramatic increase by the end of the 4th week of the month with the daily average increasing from 1,827 to 3,204.

Diving even more into the statistics, arrivals have exceeded the 2020 annual total of 555,494. With this, the Maldives moves another step closer to achieving its target to welcome 1.5 million tourists in 2021.

COVID-19 situation in the Maldives has also impr o ved with locals now allowed to travel without quarantine (to islands that aren’t under monitoring) if they received 2 doses of the vaccine. Many residents in the capital visited islands for the Eid holidays with this ease.

The government of the Maldives has also secured enough vaccines for the entire eligible population of the country.

More chapters are written into Maldives’ tourism success story every month. And this success is certainly visible from these top tourism industry highlights of July 2021.

Arrivals in 2021 exceed the annual total of 2020

A little more than a year since the island nation reopened its borders, in mid-July tourist arrivals to the Maldives exceeded the annual total of 2020. In addition to that, within the first 6 months of this year, arrivals have increased by 56.2% compared to the previous year.

Tourist arrivals in 2021 surpass 600,000

Towards the end of the month on 28th July, tourist arrivals have surpassed 600,000. From 1st January 2021 to 28th July 2021, Russia has been the Maldives’ biggest individual tourist source market. Meanwhile, neighbouring India ranked at second place among the leading individual markets.

Maldives resumes issuing visas for South Asian travellers

Maldives resumed issuing on-arrival tourist visas to South Asian travellers on 15th July 2021. Colliding with this, the daily average of tourist arrivals increased as well. Likewise, one of Maldives’ leading tourist source markets, India has made a comeback.

Accor Announces Plans to bring S/O Hotels & Resorts to the Maldives

Accor signed a hotel management agreement with S Hotels and Resorts Public Company Limited and Wai Eco World Developer Pte. Ltd. (WEWD) to introduce SO/ Hotels & Resorts to the Maldives.

Scheduled to open in 2023, the new resort will nestle on the third island of CROSSROADS Maldives. Furthermore, Accor currently operates 05 resorts in the Maldives.

World Travel Awards nominates the Maldives in 10 regional categories

World Travel Awards nominated the Maldives in 10 prestigious regional categories for its 28th annual programme. The Maldives claimed the coveted title of the ‘World’s Leading Destination’ last year.

The Maldives is nominated for the following Indian ocean categories:

Indian Ocean’s Leading Beach Destination 2021
Indian Ocean’s Leading Cruise Destination 2021
Indian Ocean’s Leading Dive Destination 2021
Indian Ocean’s Leading Destination 2021
Indian Ocean’s Leading Green Destination 2021
Indian Ocean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination 2021
Indian Ocean’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination 2021
Indian Ocean’s Leading Tourist Board 2021: Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation
Indian Ocean’s Leading Wedding Destination 2021
Indian Ocean’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination 2021

Abu Dhabi adds the Maldives to the green list

Towards the end of July 2021, Abu Dhabi updated its quarantine-free travel green list with the inclusion of the Maldives. The Emirate added eight countries; Bahrain, Bulgaria, Czech Republic and the Maldives to the updated list.

With this, travellers who fly to and from the Maldives will no longer need to self-isolate once they return to Abu Dhabi.

Tourist arrivals will possibly increase further in the coming months with peak arrivals season around the corner. To keep up with the latest travel trends and news, follow us on Twitter and join our travel community on Facebook.

Feature image by Accor

Traveling with toddlers or young kids often feels overwhelming, but when you prepare well, your family adventure becomes smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable. Whether you’re flying short distances or tackling a long-haul journey, these practical travel tips will help you navigate airports, planes, and destinations with confidence. From smart packing to calming meltdowns, here’s your essential guide to flying with kids.

1. Tire Out Toddlers Before the Flight

Let your kids burn off energy at the airport before boarding. Visit a children’s play area or soft play zone near your gate if your airport has one. Encourage running, climbing, and moving around to help them settle once you board. If play areas aren’t available, take brisk walks through the terminal or let them climb stairs to stay active.

2. Choose the Best Seats for Comfort and Convenience

Book the right seats to improve everyone’s comfort. On long-haul flights, grab seats in the middle section of the emergency exit row for extra space and easy bathroom access. Choose window seats to entertain kids with views during takeoff and landing.

3. Take Advantage of Early Boarding

Use early boarding to get your family settled without the crowd. Most airlines offer pre-boarding for families with young children. Use this time to stash carry-ons, set up car seats, and get kids comfortable before the aisles fill up. Ask staff politely for help with strollers or expedited security if needed.

4. Pack Smart and Light Without Skipping Essentials

Streamline your packing without sacrificing toddler must-haves. Borrow or rent bulky items like strollers and car seats at your destination to reduce your load. Pack plenty of diapers, wipes, extra clothes, and essentials in your carry-on. Use a multi-compartment “snackle box” filled with your child’s favorite treats to keep them busy and satisfied during the flight.

5. Manage Ear Pressure with Easy Solutions

Prevent ear pain during takeoff and landing. Offer your baby a pacifier or bottle. Give older toddlers something to chew—like a dissolvable lollipop or gum. Teach them to yawn or blow gently while pinching their nose. Use saline sprays if they have a stuffy nose to avoid added discomfort.

6. Bring Comfort Items and Entertainment

Create a travel “goodie bag” to keep kids entertained and comforted. Include familiar items like a favorite blanket or stuffed animal, along with quiet toys, coloring books, child-friendly headphones, and a tablet loaded with shows or games. Bring an inflatable footrest or cushion to help them stretch out and rest comfortably.

7. Plan Flights and Stopovers Around Your Toddler’s Routine

Book night flights to align with your child’s sleep schedule and reduce jet lag. Plan stopovers carefully—choose longer layovers if they offer a chance to nap, eat, or play. When possible, adjust your toddler’s sleep routine a few days before travel to ease the transition.

8. Stay Flexible and Embrace the Chaos

Build flexibility into your travel plans. Avoid overloading your itinerary and allow time for snacks, bathroom breaks, or detours. Stay calm during tantrums and respond with patience. When you embrace the unpredictable moments, you create better experiences and lower everyone’s stress levels.

9. Use Family-Friendly Accommodations and Airlines

Book hotels or vacation rentals that cater to families. Look for places with high chairs, cribs, separate sleeping spaces, or kid-friendly amenities like pools and play areas. Fly with airlines known for family service—many offer toddler meals, in-flight entertainment packs, and helpful staff. Confirm stroller policies and bring travel accessories like seat extenders or portable beds to enhance comfort on board.

10. Travel with Extra Support

Bring friends, family, or a partner whenever possible. Shared childcare lightens your load and allows everyone a break. If you’re flying solo, ask airline or airport staff for help and plan to meet local support at your destination. A little assistance goes a long way.

Make Your Next Family Flight a Breeze

Flying with toddlers doesn’t have to feel like a mission. When you plan smart, pack efficiently, and stay adaptable, you make family travel easier and more fun. Whether it’s your child’s first flight or one of many, each journey creates lasting memories. Use these travel tips to keep your toddler happy and your stress levels low. You’ve got this—happy travels!

Check out these 8 family-friendly retreats in the Maldives for a summer holiday!

Feature Image: Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa