Maldives Tourism Minister Affirms Welcome to Indian Tourists

During an interview with the Press Trust of India (PTI) at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) fair in Dubai, Faisal underscored the longstanding relationship between the Maldives and India, which the current government is committed to maintaining.

While India has historically been the primary source market for tourists, recent derogatory remarks made by three Maldivian government officials against Prime Minister Narendra Modi led to a decline in Indian tourist arrivals. This decline amounted to 42% in the first four months of this year compared to the same period last year, as reported by the Tourism Ministry.

In response, Minister Faisal expressed the Maldives' dedication to promoting peace and friendship, assuring that both the government and the people of the Maldives warmly welcome Indian tourists.

"As the tourism minister, I want to stress that Indian tourists should be an integral part of Maldives' tourism... Maldives' economy relies heavily on tourism," remarked Faisal.

He further emphasized the significance of India's populous market as a vital contributor to Maldivian tourism.