The Maldives has observed a massive decline in tourism from India over the last few months. According to data, as of May 4, the island country recorded 43,991 tourist arrivals from India. This is a sharp decline from the 73,785 arrivals during the same period in 2023. Seeing this, the Maldivian Tourism Minister has requested Indian tourists to “be a part of Maldives’ tourism.” He even talked about the historical relations between the two countries and how Maldives needs Indian tourists to boost its economy.
Maldives Urge India To Be A Part Of Its Tourism
Amid the strained bilateral ties between India and the Maldives, the island country has asked Indian tourists to support their economy and resume travel. Ibrahim Faisal, the Tourism Minister of Maldives, has urged Indians to “be a part of Maldives’ tourism” and even talked about the historical relationship between the two countries.
In an interview with PTI, he said, “We have a history. Our newly elected government also wants to work together (with India). We always promote peace and a friendly environment. Our people and the government will give a warm welcome to Indian arrivals. As the Tourism Minister, I want to tell Indians to please be a part of Maldives’ tourism. Our economy depends on tourism.”
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42% Decline In Indian Tourism In The Island Country
Earlier this year, PM Narendra Modi visited Lakshadweep and posted about his visit on X (formerly Twitter). After this, three Maldivian officials posted derogatory comments about his visit that led to a lot of backlash and a massive drop in tourism from India to the island country. This backlash resulted in Indian tourists going from being the top visitor in Maldives to now being in the sixth position.
According to data, tourist arrivals from India in Maldives decreased by 42% in 2024, as compared to the same period in 2023. In more elaborate numbers, as of May 4, Maldives recorded 43,991 tourist arrivals, as compared to 73,785 arrivals during the same time in 2023.
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