A Monthly Publication by Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO)
MATATO NEWS
MATATO to Organize Road Shows in India and Holds Meeting with Indian High Commissioner in the Maldives
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MATATO Meets Economic Development Minister to Tackle Local Travel Agents' Challenges
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Government Withdraws Travel Agents Bill at MATATO's Request
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MATATO Challenges World Bank's Analysis on Decline in GDP Due to Guest Houses
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MATATO NEWS
Monthly News by MATATO
Cover Photo & Photos: istockphoto/ shutterstock
CONTRIBUTIONS
MATATO MANAGEMENT TEAM
Abdulla Ghiyas
Mohamed Shaz Waleed
Mohamed Khaleel
Abdulla Suood
Mohamed Bassam Adam
Aminath Suzan
Fathimath Shaha
Ibrahim Didi
Ibrahim Nizam
Ignaz Mansoor
Hathim Hassan
ADVERTISING & EDITORIAL
For advertising & editorial queries please email to admin@matato.org
CONTACT
Email : admin@matato.org
Phone :+960 3000 929
Mob# :+960 739 0050
© MATATO NEWS 2024 All rights reserved.
MATATO dashboard
2022 International Tourism Arrivals (million) - 969
2022 Maldives Tourism Arrivals - 1,675,303
Maldives Tourist Arrivals Monthly 2024 vs 23 vs 22
Tourist Accommodation (as of 28th April 2024)
Arrivals, 2020 – 2024 (as of 28th April)
Top 10 Markets 2024 (as of 28th April)
62,232 total Operational beds in Maldives as at 28th April 2024
Monetary Authority (MMA) INTERNATIONAL TOURISM TO END 2023 CLOSE TO 90% OF PREPANDEMIC LEVELSunwto
Maldives
MATATO dashboard
The occupancy rate for Maldives beds in 2024 stands at 80% based on the available capacity (as at Feb 2024)
Govt Dollar income per tourist 467 USD
Sources: UNWTO
Ministry of Tourism – Maldives
Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA)
Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA)
The newest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer also shows:
• World destinations welcomed 22% more international tourists in the third quarter of 2023 compared to the same period last year, reflecting a strong Northern Hemisphere summer season.
• International tourist arrivals hit 91% of pre-pandemic levels in the third quarter, reaching 92% in July, the best month so far since the start of pandemic.
• Overall, tourism recovered 87% of prepandemic levels in January-September 2023. That puts the sector on course to recover almost 90% by the end of the year.
• International tourism receipts could reach USD 1.4 trillion in 2023, about 93% of the USD 1.5 trillion earned by destinations in 2019.
Bed capacity utilization (2024)
Upcoming properties
Property
Infinite Maldives by Cocoon
Ozen Privé Athiri Gili
Meyyafushi
Avalon Maldives
Villa Haven
Nammos Maldives
Joali Lagoon
JW Marriott Emboodhoo Finolhu
Feydhoo Finolhu
Capella Maldives
Centara Lagoon
Centara Grand Muthaafushi
Al Mahra
Corinthia Maldives
Project Delfin
Soneva Secret
Mandarin Oriental Bolidhuffaru Reef
Rosewood Ranfaru Maldives
Bulgari Resort Ranfushi
Source: Hotelier Maldives
Malé Atoll 2025
Malé Atoll 2024
Lhaviyani Atoll 2024
Dhaalu Atoll 2024
South Ari Atoll 2024
Malé Atoll 2025
Malé Atoll 2025
Malé Atoll 2025
Malé Atoll 2024
Malé Atoll 2025
Malé Atoll 2025
Baa Atoll 2024
Laamu Atoll 2025
Malé Atoll 2025
Malé Atoll 2025
Haa Dhaalu Atoll 2024
Malé Atoll 2025
Malé Atoll 2025
Raa Atoll 2025
Upcoming MMPRC Fairs
ECONOMIC UPDATE
Source: Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA)
MATATO to Organize Road Shows in India and Holds
Meeting with Indian High Commissioner in the Maldives
The Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) engaged in a productive meeting with His Excellency Munu Mahawar, the Indian High Commissioner to the Maldives, to explore collaborative efforts in tourism promotion. The meeting, held at the Indian High Commission in Maldives, highlighted mutual interests in enhancing travel and tourism between the Maldives and India.
MATATO expressed its intention to collaborate closely with the Indian High Commission in Maldives to bolster tourism initiatives. Plans are underway to launch a comprehensive roadshow across key cities in India and to facilitate influencer and media familiarization trips to the Maldives in the forthcoming months.
India remains a vital market for Maldivian tourism, and MATATO looks forward to partnering with prominent travel associations and industry stakeholders across India to further promote the Maldives as a premier travel destination.
Reflecting on MATATO's significant contributions in the past, from 2014 to 2018, the association played a pivotal role in nurturing the Indian market, surpassing traditional promotion efforts. Notably, MATATO spearheaded participation in prominent trade fairs such as OTM, SATTE, BITB, and IITM, setting new standards for industry engagement. In 2018, MATATO organized the acclaimed "Maldivian Night" in Mumbai, attracting over 200 travel professionals, a testament to the association's commitment to the Indian market.
Over the years, MATATO adopted innovative strategies to tap into India's burgeoning tourism market, showcasing resilience and adaptability in navigating evolving industry landscapes. The Association is confident with the support from the industry and the Government agencies, Maldives can regain the current decline in Indian tourists.
India's burgeoning middle class is anticipated to spend a substantial $144 billion annually on international travel by the year 2030, drawing significant interest and investment from global players in the hospitality, airline, and tourism industries. According to Euromonitor, the number of outbound Indian travelers is expected to double to 47 million by 2030, with their spending projected to increase from $35 billion in 2019 to an impressive $84 billion by 2030. This growth trajectory positions India to ascend to the sixth-largest outbound travel market globally by 2030, trailing only China, the U.S., the U.K., Germany, and France.
Several industry reports forecast robust expansion in Indian outbound travel, with a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.2% through 2032, closely mirroring Euromonitor's predictions. This surge in outbound tourism has led to a fervent pursuit of Indian tourists by top destinations such as Dubai and prominent airlines like Qatar Airways, leveraging the star power of Bollywood icons.
Euromonitor data indicates that over 75% of Indian millennials and Gen Xers traveled in 2023, demonstrating a strong appetite for diverse travel experiences ranging from luxury getaways to eco-adventures.
The recent meeting with the Indian High Commissioner signifies MATATO's continued dedication to fostering robust tourism ties between the Maldives and India, paving the way for transformative collaborations that will drive sustainable growth in the region's tourism sector.
Government Withdraws Travel Agents Bill at MATATO's Request
MATATO is pleased to announce that the proposed bill mandating licensing requirements for local travel agents in the Maldives has been withdrawn by the government and will be resubmitted with the changes. Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has been working with Ministry of Tourism to propose a bill to the Maldivian Parliament, aiming to safeguard the interests of local travel agents.
Originally introduced by PNC MP Hassan Zareer on behalf of the government, the bill underwent its first reading on March 12th.
Under Article 92(h) of the Parliament’s Rules of Procedure, the government exercised its right to formally withdraw the bill.
The proposed legislation aimed to establish a comprehensive legal framework for regulating travel agency services in the tourism sector. It outlined specific licensing procedures and standards, specifying that only licensed individuals would be authorized to provide such services. Additionally, the bill detailed various conditions and classifications for obtaining licenses.
Minority Leader and Funadhoo MP Moosa Siraj mentioned that the withdrawal of the bill was intended to facilitate additional amendments before its resubmission.
MATATO Meets Economic Development Minister to Tackle Local Travel Agents' Challenges
MATATO recently met with the Minister of Economic Development and Trade to discuss the obstacles faced by local travel agents. The meeting looked into comprehensive discussions aiming to develop strategies for safeguarding and promoting the interests of these agents within the tourism industry. Central to the discourse was the exploration of protective measures to shield local travel agents from external market pressures. In this regard, MATATO and the Ministry explored potential incentives and financial opportunities that could bolster the resilience and competitiveness of local travel agents in the face of evolving market dynamics.
Moreover, the dialogue highlighted the crucial role of government support in facilitating the growth and sustainability of local travel agents. Identifying key areas where governmental intervention could prove instrumental, both MATATO and the Ministry endeavored to devise collaborative initiatives aimed at empowering and uplifting local travel agents.
By fostering a collaborative environment between industry stakeholders and governmental bodies, MATATO seeks to create a conducive ecosystem that nurtures the growth and prosperity of local travel agents, ensuring their continued contribution to the vibrant tourism landscape of the Maldives.
MATATO Challenges World Bank's Analysis on Decline in GDP Due to Guest Houses
The recent report from the World Bank attributing Maldives' declining GDP growth to a shift in tourism activity from luxury resorts to guesthouses has come under scrutiny by the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO). In their latest South Asia Development Update, the World Bank revised Maldives' output growth forecasts, projecting a rise to 4.7 percent in 2024, with a 0.5 percentage point downgrade from previous projections. This adjustment was primarily linked to what the report identified as a transition in tourism activity from high-end resorts to more affordable guesthouses.
Contrary to the World Bank's assessment, MATATO contends that the slowdown in GDP growth cannot be solely attributed to this shift. Rather, MATATO argues that the downturn is indicative of a broader imbalance between supply and demand within the tourism sector. Furthermore, MATATO highlights a drop in Average Daily Rates (ADR) across the entire industry and a lack of strategic marketing efforts to stimulate demand and address the excess supply.
Additionally, MATATO disputes the notion that the decline in GDP is primarily due to a shift towards guesthouses, pointing out that while the occupancy rate for guesthouses in 2023 was 42.7%, significantly lower than that of resorts, the room rates and occupancy for guesthouses are notably lower compared to resorts. This suggests that the economic downturn is not a result of this shift but rather reflects challenges faced by the entire tourism industry in meeting current market demands.
MATATO's analysis, published in its November monthly newsletter last year, highlighted the challenges facing Maldives' tourism sector in 2023. Despite a surge in visitor arrivals, the industry grappled with significant obstacles impacting key performance indicators and revenue, a sentiment echoed throughout the year.
Key Findings on Occupancy and Revenue:
• MATATO's data reveals that only 51% of available beds in Maldives were occupied in 2023, despite a total operational capacity of 62,822 beds as of November 1, 2023, indicating a concerning underutilization of resources.
• Tourists in Maldives reduced their average length of stay from 8.1 days in 2022 to 7.6 days in 2023, raising concerns about critical Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR), a vital indicator of the tourism sector's performance.
• The resurgence of global inflation, coupled with the reopening of competitive beach destinations that were shuttered during the pandemic and remained closed until late 2021, has intensified the competitive landscape against the Maldives. These destinations, including Indonesia's Bali, Thailand's Phuket and Ko Samui, the Philippines, Malaysia, Mauritius, Seychelles, the Caribbean Islands, Bora Bora, and numerous others, have swiftly resumed operations and are aggressively vying for tourist attention and spending.
• MATATO highlights a significant drop in tourist revenue over the first eight months of 2023, totalling $2.6 billion (MVR 40 billion), a decline of $160 million (MVR 2.5 billion) compared to the previous year, representing a five percent decrease.
Despite welcoming more tourists, revenue declined due to substantial reductions in room rates at resorts, guesthouses, and liveaboards. Challenges related to tourists' duration of stays and occupancy rates further impacted the industry.
Resort revenue plummeted by $529 million (MVR 8 billion) in 2023, according to MATI's report, contributing to a $406 million (MVR 6.3 billion) drop in overall tourism industry revenue. Total tourism revenue in 2023 was $5 billion, compared to $5.4 billion in 2022.
MATATO emphasizes that the World Bank's report only covers data up to Q3 of 2023, overlooking more recent developments in the tourism sector.
In addition to the challenges highlighted, MATATO draws attention to the evolving trends in private jet travel to the Maldives. Understanding permit trends is crucial for stakeholders to navigate market dynamics effectively, especially concerning high-end travelers.
From 2020 to 2024, private jet permit issuance fluctuated due to various factors such as global events, border regulations, and industry initiatives. Despite a rebound in permits post-pandemic, challenges persisted in sustaining growth, particularly in 2023, where geopolitical tensions impacted travel demand.
Year Jet Permits (estimates)
2020 (Borders opened July)
(Year to date)
Stakeholders foresee obstacles in private jet travel and are strategizing initiatives to stimulate growth, with particular emphasis on summer operations as a potential avenue for a turnaround. In a broader spectrum, global competitors are aggressively promoting their destinations. However, the Maldives grapples with amplified challenges stemming from heightened airfares, inflation, geopolitical conflicts, and war.
The most pressing issue remains the imbalance in supply and demand within the Maldivian tourism sector. Navigating through this complex environment, characterized by evolving market dynamics and fierce competition, underscores the imperative for adaptation and innovation to secure the long-term prosperity of this vital industry.
MATATO Hosts Annual Iftar Gathering for Members and partners
MATATO recently hosted a joyous Iftar gathering on March 17, 2024, bringing together its members, media representatives, and various stakeholders for an evening of camaraderie and celebration.
Generously sponsored by Resort life, Pearl Travel Service, Avia Maldives, and Printlab, the event was characterized by delectable cuisine, delightful company, and positive vibes all around.
Attendees were treated to an array of exciting prizes, including gift vouchers courtesy of Euro Marketing, a complimentary guest house stay at Koimala Beach Hotel on AA. Ukulhas arranged by @nhgammv, and gift hampers from MATATO, which were awarded to lucky winners selected from among the participants.
A noteworthy initiative highlighted during the event was MATATO's partnership with @IACMaldives to support fundraising efforts for the Gaza Relief Fund. Guests were encouraged to contribute, with informative placards conveniently placed on tables to guide them through the donation process. As the month of Ramadan emphasizes patience and generosity, attendees were urged to keep the people of Palestine in their thoughts and prayers.
The success of the Iftar would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of everyone involved in its organization, as well as the enthusiastic participation of those in attendance. MATATO extends heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to making the event a memorable and meaningful occasion.
MATATO Convenes with Controller General of Immigration
Controller General of Immigration, Mr. Shamaan convened a meeting with the esteemed representatives of MATATO, including Mr. Abdulla Ghiyas, President, Ms. Aminath Suzan, CEO, and Mr. Mohamed Mauroof, Aviation Committee member. The gathering served as a platform for fruitful discussions on critical aspects of visitor facilitation and data sharing within the tourism sector.
Furthermore, the importance of data sharing emerged as a pivotal topic of discussion, underscoring the significance of collaborative efforts in harnessing data-driven insights to inform decision-making and policy formulation. The parties explored avenues for strengthening cooperation and establishing frameworks for effective data sharing practices, recognizing the potential of shared data in enhancing visitor experiences and supporting sustainable tourism development initiatives.
As stakeholders committed to advancing the interests of the tourism industry, the Controller General of Immigration and MATATO reaffirmed their dedication to fostering collaboration and synergy in addressing common challenges and driving positive outcomes for all stakeholders involved. The meeting concluded on a positive note, with a shared commitment to continued dialogue and collaboration in pursuit of shared goals and objectives for the benefit of the Maldives' tourism sector.
MATATO Extends Congratulations to President Muizzu and PNC Secretariat on parliament Election Victory
MATATO extends its warm congratulations to His Excellency President Dr.Mohamed Muizzu and the Progressive National Congress (PNC) Secretariat on their victory in the recent parliamentary elections. This triumph underscores the immense trust and confidence that the Maldivian people have placed in President Muizzu's leadership and PNC.
As a pivotal organization within the tourism sector, MATATO recognizes the pivotal role that government leadership plays in shaping policies and initiatives that directly impact the industry's growth and prosperity. President Muizzu's resounding success in the elections further solidifies the prospects for a flourishing tourism landscape in the Maldives.
MATATO ACTIVITIES 2024
April
• Ministry of Economic Development and Trade facilitated a meeting between MATATO and BCC and SDFC to discuss business support for its members through the government’s SME ecosystem.
• USAID Maldives Climate Adaptation Project Team met with MATATO to discuss areas of collaboration
• MATATO Meets with Indian High Commissioner to Foster Tourism Cooperation between both countries
• MATATO engaged in the preliminary discussions held at the South Region Symposium 2024, initiated by MMPRC
March
• Controller General of Immigration met MATATO Aviation Committee and discussed on visitor facilitation and data sharing
• MATATO met with Minister of Economic Development and Trade to discuss potential areas of support from the government.
• MATATO participated in a consultation session hosted by ACC Maldives focusing on the upcoming Anti-Corruption Conference
• MATATO hosted a fun filled Iftar for its members, media and other stakeholders
• MATATO Ramazan Daily Quiz
• Gadha Chefun, A Ramazan Special Culinary Show with Baiskoafu
• Leading The Way: Women In Action, Women’s Day Initiative By MATATO with Baiskoafu
• Minister Faisal met with Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid with MATATO
• MATATO launches the Media Kit for Maldives Finder 2024 at ITB Berlin
February
• MATATO meets Mayor Adam Azim, Male' City Council
• MATATO spoke at Maldives Bureau of Statistics launch event for Tourism Statistics Survey 2024
• Ministry of Tourism launched the Eco-tourism Framework and Roadmap with our association participation.
• MATATO's call to action: Addressing dollar shortages
• MATATO marked Global Tourism Resilience Day with sharing insights from industry experts
• MATATO Aviation Committee met with CEO / Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed from Maldives Airports Company Ltd
• MATATO Aviation Committee held a productive meeting with Mr. Ibrahim Iyas, the Managing Director of Island Aviation Services/Maldivian
• MATATO participated in the Stakeholder Workshop organized by the Ministry of Tourism proposed Eco-Tourism Framework
• MATATO participated in the Fifth Meeting of the Joint Meeting Mechanism for Chinese Tourist Safety in the Maldives, organized by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China
January
• MATATO and MMPRC held a meeting to delve into potential collaborative opportunities aimed at bolstering partnership in marketing the Maldives
• MATATO engages in a dialogue with Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal to address the challenges encountered by local travel agents
• Aminath Suzan appointed as MATATO’s CEO, championing women’s empowerment in Maldives tourism
• MMPRC amended membership policy to prioritize local TO's & TA's and locally registered stakeholders as lobbied by MATATO
• MATATO launches Hotel Cancellation and Impact Survey
• Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) advocates for positive relations with India
MATATO ACTIVITIES 2023
December
• MATATO hosts Destination Workshop for stakeholders
• MATATO Aviation Committee meets Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation
November
• MATATO establishes Aviation Committee
• MATATO Board meets Advisor to the President on Tourism Development
• MATATO board meets with IMF Team in the Maldives about tax reforms
October
• MATATO joined PATA Travel Market 2023 – New Delhi, India
• MATATO Holds Local Travel Agents Discussion Forum
• MATATO Takes Part in Panel Discussion at GM Forum 2023
• MATATO Engages with Local TV Stations to Address Challenges
September
• MATATO Boards meets 2023 Presidential candidates
• MATATO Releases Report on Tourism and Finance
July
• MATATO joins in welcoming the One Millionth Tourist to Maldives
• Launches Maldives Travel Awards 2023 nominations.
June
• Association begins Survey data collection on Maldives Tourism and Finance Sector
• MATATO joined PATA Destination Experience Forum – Kuching, Malaysia
• MMPRC MD Mr Thoyyib Mohamed was a Speaker at PATA Destination Experience Forum –Kuching, Malaysia
• MATATO VP Mohamed Shaaz Waleed on Raajje_TV – ‘5 Kaafu Program’ discussing updates on Maldives Tourism
• MATATO promoted Himalayan Travel Mart 2023 Nepal
May
• MATATO joined PATA Annual Summit & Adventure Mart 2023 – Pokhara, Nepal
• Maldives Minister of Tourism Dr Abdulla Mausoom Speaker at PATA Annual Summit & Adventure Mart 2023 – Pokhara, Nepal
• MATATO participated Visit Maldives Storytellers' Conference 2023 held at Crossroads Maldives
• MATATO partners with Korean Tourism Organisation for roadshow in Male’
April
• MATATO Ifthar 2023 (Sponsored by Resort Life)
• Opened Request for Proposal (RFP) - Maldives Travel Awards 2023 and Maldives Travel Conference 2023
• MATATO and Visit Maldives participate in Travel Agents Forum 2023 in Las Vegas in April 2023
March
• MATATO holds Board meeting
February
• MATATO forms sub committees for Aviation and Foreign Relations
• MATATO appoints a new Secretary General – Abdulla Suood
January
• MATATO holds first Board meeting for year
• Association lobbies against the increase in TGST increase
Why matato
In the last 18 years of MATATOs existence, the association is known for following:
EXPERIENCE
Eighteen Years of continued support and service to the industry. (Established in 2006, MATATO continues to contribute as strong partner to the growth of the industry)
RECOGNITION AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
MATATO is a household name in the travel industry of Maldives, recognized at National and International Level. Members of MATATO benefit from representation by an organization acknowledged by the stake holders. MATATO’s opinion and consultation is sought after from all areas including the business sector and in the highest level of the government.
ADVOCACY AND LOBBYING
Lobbying with Government, MATATO has always liaised closely with government institutes, have held meetings with cabinet ministers on multiple occasions addressing the concerns of our members and collectively, of the industry. MATATO continues to enjoy and benefit from this strong collaboration with the government.
EXHIBITIONS, FAIRS AND DESTINATION MARKETING
MATATO has organized destination stands and roadshows, in India, Finland, Russia, Ukraine, Saudi Arabia, China, Malaysia, Macau, Indonesia, UK, and many other countries.
AFFILIATIONS AND PARTNERSHIPS INTERNATIONAL
Pacific Asia Travel Association PATA – MATATO has signed an MOU with PATA for joint collaborations and projects. MATATO is also the local chapter for PATA in Maldives.
TRAININGS AND WORKSHOPS
MATATO has been organizing various trainings and workshops for our members and industry PUBLICATIONS
MATATO has been publishing an annual magazine, Maldives Finder for the last six years.
EVENTS AND REGOGNITION
MATATO has been organizing the Maldives Travel Awards annually for the last several years. The association also hosts the Maldives Travel Conference annually.
