Maldives’ Tourism Minister Says ATM 2025 was ‘A Great Success’

Tourism Minister Thoriq Ibrahim has stated the 2025 Arabian Travel Market (ATM) as a resounding success following its conclusion last Thursday. 

The event, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from last Monday to Thursday, is the largest travel-trade fair in the Middle East.

advertisement

advertisement

advertisement

Minister Thoriq commended the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) and various tourism stakeholders for their efforts in effectively showcasing the Maldives’ natural beauty, culture, cuisine, music, and art. He noted that the Maldives’ stall attracted a significant number of visitors from around the world. Resorts participating in the fair also reported higher-than-expected engagement, with numerous business exchanges taking place.

Thoriq also highlighted the progress of the new passenger terminal being developed at Velana International Airport (VIA), which is expected to accommodate up to 7.5 million passengers annually when it opens in October.

A key aspect of the Maldives’ participation in the ATM involved discussions and agreements with international airlines to enhance air connectivity. The Minister mentioned meetings with low-cost carriers and efforts to increase flights to Gan in Addu. Discussions were also held with airlines that had previously ceased operations to the Maldives, such as Wizz Air, flydubai, and Gulf Air.

This year’s ATM, themed “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity,” focused on strengthening connections between borders, industries, and communities to foster sustainable tourism. The Maldives was represented by 235 delegates from 110 companies, including hoteliers, tour operators, and other tourism sector stakeholders, alongside representatives from approximately 160 global tourist destinations.