Muizzu Calls for Greater Use of Digital Technology, AI to Strengthen Maldives Tourism Industry
Welcome for the 1 millionth tourist this year Almudena Esperaza on June 20.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has highlighted the need for the Maldives to embrace digital technology and artificial intelligence to strengthen the tourism industry as the country marks World Tourism Day.
In a message marking the occasion, Muizzu praised tourism workers, communities and industry partners for contributing to the Maldives’ position as a global tourist destination.
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He said tourism remains a key driver of national development and international connectivity, adding that the industry must adapt and innovate as digital technologies and AI transform tourism.
On #WorldTourismDay, we applaud the people, communities and our partners in the industry, who have made the Maldives a leading global destination.
Tourism remains a driving force behind our nation's development and global connections. As digital technologies and AI transform… pic.twitter.com/iVHpuLTNg2— Dr Mohamed Muizzu (@MMuizzu) September 27, 2026
Muizzu said the Maldives is committed to embracing innovation, investing in skills and using digital solutions to improve visitor experiences. He also stressed the importance of preserving the country’s natural environment, identity and hospitality while adopting new technologies.
Tourism remains the Maldives’ largest economic sector, although the industry has recorded softer performance this year. The Maldives recorded around 1.46 million tourist arrivals by 2 September, down nearly 4 per cent compared with the same period last year. China was the largest source market with 18.7 per cent of arrivals, followed by Russia at 14.6 per cent and the UK at 7.7 per cent.
Resorts accounted for 73.5 per cent of visitors, while guesthouses accommodated 22.1 per cent. The country had 68,580 operational tourist beds across 1,326 facilities as of September 2.
Resort occupancy also declined from 69.1 per cent to 64.9 per cent between January and July, while resort bednights fell 3.7 per cent year-on-year, despite a 2.4 per cent increase in operational resort beds.
