Tourism Industry Highlights for May 2021

We’ve rounded up the Maldives’ tourism industry highlights for May 2021. Compared to the previous months of this year, the month of May presented some challenges to the tourism industry.

As COVID-19 cases spiked in the capital of the Maldives, several countries issued travel warnings to the island nation. Meanwhile, the Maldives has also placed a temporary suspension on tourist visas for travellers from South Asian countries.

Despite these challenges, the island archipelago welcomed 64,613 Tourists in the month. The tropical holiday destination continued to maintain its status as a leading destination in the world both in terms of safety and value. This was proven when the world’s largest travel platform, TripAdvisor honoured numerous resorts in the country with the Travellers’ Choice Award.

Without further ado, here are the Maldives’ top tourism industry highlights for May 2021.

Patina Maldives, Fari Islands Opens its Doors

It’s another new possibility for the modern traveller to experience the Maldives. The island of wondrous depths, Patina Maldives finally opened its doors on 18th May 2021. This luxury resort will be operated by Patina Hotels and Resorts; the latest hospitality concept of Capella Hotel Group.

This new escape appeals to a new generation of travellers seeking connections with themselves and the world around them.

TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards Honour Resorts in the Maldives

Numerous resorts in the Maldives received the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award. Notably, Kandolhu Maldives and Mirihi Island Resort claimed a spot among the Top 25 Hotels in the World. 4 resorts in the Maldives were also included in the Top 25 All-Inclusive Resorts in the World.

TripAdvisor also declared Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa as the most Picture-Perfect Hotel in the World. Moreover, this year, the capital of the Maldives, Malé was ranked in the 20th place among the ‘Top Emerging Destinations in the World’.

65% of Employees in the Tourism Industry Gets Fully Vaccinated

By the end of May 2021, 65% of employees in the tourism industry received their second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. According to the Maldives’ Ministry of Tourism, 95% of employees in the industry have also received the 1st dose of the vaccine.

Maldives Surpasses 450,000 Tourist Arrivals for the Year

In May 2021, the Maldives surpassed 450,000 tourist arrivals. With this, the island nation achieved over 30% of its goal to welcome 1.5 million tourists in 2021. According to the statistics from the Tourism Ministry, a total of 454,383 tourists visited the Maldives from 1st January 2021 to 31st January 2021.

Saudia Starts Flight Operations to the Maldives

Saudia started flight operations to the Maldives on 20th May 2021. According to Velana International Airport, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia will operate four weekly flights to the tropical holiday destination.

Citizens of Saudi Arabia who received two shots of the COVID-19 vaccine (or one shot at least two weeks before travel), those who recovered from COVID-19 within the last 6 months and the citizens under 18 are allowed to travel.

The Maldives Participates in Arabian Travel Market

The Maldives was showcased at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) held from 16th May 2021 to 19th May 2021. Alongside the government body mandated with the promotion of Maldives, 37 tourism establishments were showcased under the Maldives at the leading international travel and tourism event for the Middle Eastern Market.

Plans Announced to Establish a Travel Corridor between UAE and the Maldives

At the Arabian Travel Market, Maldives’ Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Aminath Shabeena revealed the two nations are in the process of creating a travel corridor. This travel corridor will allow travellers who received the two doses of any World Health Organization-approved vaccines to travel between the Maldives and UAE without a PCR test.

More exciting headlines are on the way for June 2021. In fact, another new resort at Fari Islands has already opened its doors on 1st June 2021. Keep up with the latest travel updates by following us on Twitter and join our community on Facebook.

Feature image by Patina Maldives, Fari Islands

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.