During his recent visit to India, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives spoke at a tourism and trade event in Mumbai, highlighting the strong ties between the two countries and the growing tourism opportunities. He invited Indian investors and the Bollywood film industry to explore potential collaborations in the Maldives’ tourism sector.
In his speech, President Muizzu noted the significant role of Indian tourists, with nearly 100,000 visiting the Maldives this year. He emphasized that tourism goes beyond economic benefits, fostering cultural understanding and strengthening bonds between nations. The president also praised the Maldives for being named the World’s Leading Destination for four consecutive years, thanks to its beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and top-tier hospitality.
Looking ahead, President Muizzu shared plans to diversify the Maldives’ tourism offerings, including eco-tourism, wellness retreats, and MICE tourism. He invited Bollywood filmmakers to use the Maldives as a scenic location for productions, further enhancing cultural ties between the two nations.
To support future growth, President Muizzu outlined infrastructure projects, including expansions at Velana International Airport and the new Hanimaadhoo International Airport, aimed at improving visitor experiences. He also encouraged Indian businesses to invest in luxury private islands, eco-friendly resorts, and other tourism ventures, supported by new laws designed to make foreign investment easier.
The president stressed the importance of sustainability in tourism, with a focus on balancing economic growth and environmental conservation. He concluded by expressing confidence that stronger partnerships between India and the Maldives will create new opportunities for economic prosperity and community development.
