The Maldives generated over USD 3.5 billion from tourism last year.
Official statistics in the central bank, Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA)'s Annual Report, show the tourism revenue increased by 148 percent in 2021 compared to 2020.
MMA's report shows that 1.3 million tourists visited the Maldives last year. In 2021, the average stay rose to 9.8 days from 7.2 days in 2020. A growth of 153 percent was registered in bed nights compared to 2020.
According to the report, tourist arrivals registered a strong rebound driven by the easing of travel restrictions, reflecting increased COVID-19 vaccination rates both globally and locally.
The direct flights to the Maldives from source markets significantly contributed to the growth of the tourism industry. Additionally, flight movements recorded to the Maldives in 2021 increased by 119 percent in 2021, with 6,991 movements.
By the end of 2021, 30 airlines were operating to the Maldives. This included 13 scheduled airlines and 17 charter airlines.
Tourism Revenue over the past three years
2019: USD 3.2 billion
2020: USD 1.4 billion
2021: USD 3.5 billion
