Arrivals from Russia increased by a staggering 301.8% from 1st January 2021 to 16th June 2021, compared to the same period last year.
Tourist arrivals to the Maldives from Russia grew by over 300% in 2021, compared to 2020. According to statistics from the Maldives’ Ministry of Tourism, arrivals from Russia increased by a staggering 301.8% from 1st January 2021 to 16th June 2021, compared to the same period last year.
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When compared to the pre-pandemic figures of 2019, arrivals from Russia to the Maldives grew by 184.2%.
Statistics from the Ministry of Tourism show that 116,310 tourists from Russia visited the Maldives between 1st January 2021 and 16th January 2021. This is 24.1% of the total market share. In the same period last year, 28,949 tourists visited the Maldives from Russia.
Russia is currently the Maldives leading tourist source market. Arrivals from Russia have tremendously contributed to the recovery of the Maldives’ tourism industry. Likewise, popular Russian personalities have visited the Maldives since the island archipelago reopened its borders last year.
According to the latest statistics, 489,182 tourists have visited the Maldives by 19th June 2021. Tourist arrivals to the Maldives increased by 27.8% compared to last year. However, it should be noted that the Maldives’ borders were closed for April, May, June and half of July last year.
Tourists spent an average of 9 days in the island nation between 1st January 2021 and 19th June 2021. The average stay of tourists has slightly increased compared to the earlier months of this year.
The government of the Maldives announced several initiatives to attract more visitors this year. Once all the residents of the island nation are fully vaccinated, Maldives plans to start a ‘visit, vaccinate, vacation’ initiative.
The Maldives has an ambitious goal to welcome 1.5 million tourists in 2021. The island archipelago is currently regarded as one of the safest holiday destinations in the world, thanks to its unique geographical advantage; the one-island-one-resort concept.
The Maldives has officially hit a remarkable tourism milestone by welcoming its one millionth visitor for 2025 earlier than ever before. This historic achievement highlights the island nation’s growing popularity as a top luxury travel destination and its rising appeal for honeymooners, adventure seekers, and eco-conscious travelers alike. Minister for Tourism and Environment, Hon. Thoriq Ibrahim, expressed that this milestone fills the nation with immense pride, reflecting the success of destination marketing efforts that truly capture the Maldivian experience. He also recognized the dedication of everyone in the tourism sector who contributed to this achievement.
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According to the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, the one million mark arrived on June 7, nearly two weeks earlier than in 2024, when the milestone occurred on June 27. This is the fastest the Maldives has ever welcomed one million tourists within a single calendar year. The rapid pace of arrivals shows the country is on track to meet its ambitious target of 2.2 million tourist arrivals by the end of 2025.
A Milestone Visitor and a Commitment to Sustainability
The traveler who marked this significant milestone was Kajal Singh, visiting from India, who came with her husband to celebrate their honeymoon. Their chosen destination was Bandos Maldives, a legendary resort and a cornerstone of Maldivian hospitality that continues to attract travelers from all corners of the globe.
To mark this special occasion, Visit Maldives, alongside the Ministry of Tourism and Environment and Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), hosted a commemorative event at Velana International Airport. Demonstrating the nation’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability, Kajal was invited to take part in the “Five Million Trees Planting Program” initiated by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. As part of this meaningful gesture, she planted a tree on Hulhulé Island, contributing to a nationwide effort to combat climate change, enhance biodiversity, and nurture a greener Maldives for generations to come.
Bandos Maldives: A Historic Icon in Maldivian Tourism
Kajal Singh and her husband checked into Bandos Maldives, the country’s second resort to open and a cherished landmark in the Maldives tourism industry. Situated just a 10-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, Bandos perfectly balances island tranquility with easy access, making it a preferred choice for honeymooners, families, and returning visitors.
Having completed 52 years of continuous operation, Bandos Maldives stands as a testament to the enduring charm and evolving excellence of the Maldives as a travel hotspot. The resort offers 220 well-appointed rooms, diverse dining options, a tranquil spa, a professional dive center, and comprehensive leisure facilities. Its commitment to sustainable tourism practices, ongoing renovations, and guest-first approach ensure that Bandos remains relevant and beloved in a market filled with new luxury resorts.
Hosting the one millionth tourist at Bandos Maldives highlights the resort’s lasting popularity and its crucial role in the country’s tourism landscape. For Kajal Singh and her husband, their honeymoon at Bandos represents not only a personal celebration but also a memorable moment intertwined with the Maldives’ tourism success story.
Tourism Growth Fueled by Strategic Marketing and Enhanced Connectivity
In 2025 so far, the Maldives has experienced an 8 percent increase in overall tourist arrivals compared to the previous year, with June alone seeing an impressive 18 percent growth. Leading source markets contributing to this surge include China and Russia, followed by Germany, the Middle East, and a resurgent India, which shows strong recovery after a slight dip in 2024.
Key drivers behind this impressive growth include:
Well-coordinated international marketing campaigns by Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), including partnerships with Liverpool FC, Mumbai Indians, and prominent tour operators across Europe and Asia
Expanded flight connectivity through enhanced collaborations with Emirates, Qatar Airways, and other regional airlines
Sustainability-focused initiatives such as the government’s ‘Five Million Trees’ campaign and eco-friendly resort developments
Innovative digital marketing strategies, including influencer collaborations and engaging social media events like “The World’s Biggest Giveaway 2025”
Significant infrastructure upgrades, notably the ongoing expansion of Velana International Airport, ensuring the Maldives can support continued tourism growth
Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO and Managing Director of MMPRC, highlighted this achievement as a testament to the ongoing commitment of all stakeholders, emphasizing that efforts to enhance the Maldives’ tourism industry remain steadfast to keep the country a dream destination for travelers worldwide.
Maldives’ Ambitious Target of 2.2 Million Tourists
Following a record-breaking 2024, when the Maldives welcomed 2 million tourists and secured its fifth consecutive title as the World’s Leading Destination, the country aims even higher for 2025. The early arrival of the one millionth tourist sends a clear message that the Maldives remains well on course for another historic tourism year.
With strong momentum across all major source markets, the Maldives continues to strengthen its position as a premier luxury island destination. This success comes from preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage while delivering exceptional guest experiences.
For travelers like Kajal Singh, becoming part of this milestone while enjoying the warm hospitality and timeless charm of Bandos Maldives creates a lasting memory. It offers a perfect blend of personal celebration and witnessing the rise of one of the world’s most sought-after tropical destinations.
