Amid a noticeable decline in tourist arrivals from Bharat, Maldives extends a warm invitation to Indian travellers, recognising their significance to the island nation’s tourism sector.
Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal recently urged Indian tourists, “Please be a part of the Maldives’ tourism. Our economy depends on tourism.”
His appeal comes in response to a sharp 42 per cent decrease in Indian tourist arrivals during the first four months of this year compared to 2023, a trend that has prompted concerns over revenue losses.
The Maldivian Government’s outreach to Indian tourists follows a notable shift in tourist demographics, with a surge in Chinese visitors. Just months ago, Indian tourists topped the list of foreign visitors to the Maldives, a position now occupied by China.
Statistics reveal a stark contrast in Indian tourist numbers, with a significant drop from 73,785 arrivals between January and April 2023 to 42,638 during the same period this year. This decline has substantial financial implications, with an estimated loss of revenue amounting to Rs 468 crore ($56 million) due to reduced tourist spending.
The downturn in Indian tourist arrivals has also impacted revenue during the off-peak season, where Indian travellers traditionally play a vital role in sustaining tourism activities.
“Indian travellers have a counter-travel pattern to European travellers, meaning Indian visitors frequent the Maldives during hot seasons, which coincides with a drop in European market arrivals. India is the most significant ‘filler’ for the Maldives tourism off-peak season,” a report highlighted.
Travel agencies and operators relying on Indian arrivals have reported a revenue decline of 80 per cent, highlighting the urgent need for rejuvenating tourism ties between the two nations.
Recognising the mutual benefits of fostering tourism ties, Maldivian authorities are actively engaging with Indian counterparts. Recent efforts include discussions with the Indian High Commissioner and plans for comprehensive roadshows across key Indian cities to promote the Maldives as a preferred tourism destination.
Moreover, Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer is set to embark on his first high-level ministerial visit to Bharat, marking a pivotal step in addressing bilateral concerns. Scheduled to meet External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, discussions are anticipated to encompass regional issues and avenues for collaboration.
These developments transpire against a backdrop of strained relations between the Maldives and Bharat, exacerbated by derogatory remarks from three Maldivian ministers directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media last year.
The rift ensued following PM Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep in early January, where he showcased the island’s pristine landscape, inadvertently interpreted in the Maldives as a promotional campaign for Lakshadweep as an alternative tourist destination. This misperception triggered widespread backlash, prompting several Indian tourists, including celebrities, to forego plans to visit the Maldives, sparking the ‘Lakshadweep Chalo’ movement.
