Flag carrier and the largest airline of Russia, Aeroflot is increasing flight frequency to the Maldives to 8 flights per week from 21st Nov.
Flag carrier and the largest airline of Russia, Aeroflot is increasing flight frequency to the Maldives. According to a tweet by Maldives Airports Company (MACL), Aeroflot will increase flight frequency to the Maldives to 8 flights per week. Furthermore, this will come in effect from 21st November 2020.
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Currently, Aeroflot (Also known as Russian Airlines) is operating 4 flights per week to the Maldives. Russia is the strongest tourist source market to the Maldives since the borders reopened, in terms of tourist arrivals. Thus, the increase of flights between SVO-Russia Velana International Airport (VIA) will aid the Maldives in its road to recovering the tourism industry once again.
The largest airline of Russia, Aeroflot has been operating flights to the Maldives for more than 10 years. Usually, a direct flight from Russia to the Maldives takes about 9 hours. The airline is one of the oldest active airline services in the world. And Aeroflor was founded and has been operating since 1923.
According to statistics as of 4th November, Russia is the leading tourist source market to the Maldives. Until 4th November 2020, 9,519 tourist arrivals from Russia has been recorded with a market share of 21.5%. Meanwhile, 2020 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.
Major airlines operating flights to the Maldives have started their operations since the Maldives border reopening on 15th July 2020. Thus, Arrivals to the island nation is steadily rising once again. Moreover, according to the latest statistics from the Maldives’ Tourism Ministry, Maldives recorded 21,515 tourist arrivals in October 2020. Likewise, 44,365 tourist arrivals have been recorded since the border reopening. This month, the holiday destination saw the highest number of tourist arrivals in a single day as well.
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
