MATATO News

A Monthly Publication by Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO)

Indian market - IMPACT and analysis

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MATATO Aviation Committee meets Minister

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MMPRC appoints new Managing Director & DMD

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MATATO NEWS

Monthly News by MATATO

Cover Photo: istockphoto

CONTRIBUTIONS

MATATO MANAGEMENT TEAM

Abdulla Ghiyas

Mohamed Shaz Waleed

Mohamed Khaleel

Abdulla Suood

Mohamed Bassam Adam

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

MATATO dashboard

2022 International Tourism Arrivals (million) - 969

Maldives Tourist Arrivals Monthly 2023 vs 22 vs 21

INTERNATIONAL TOURISM TO END 2023 CLOSE TO 90% OF PREPANDEMIC LEVELSunwto

61,650 total Operational beds in Maldives as at 01st January 2024

Maldives

The occupancy rate for Maldives beds in 2023 stands at 63% based on the available capacity.

Govt Dollar income per tourist 467 USD

(Estimate based on 2023 USD Revenue)

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.

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 2024

Malé Atoll 2025

Baa Atoll 2024

Laamu Atoll 2025

Malé Atoll 2025

Haa Dhaalu Atoll 2024

Malé Atoll 2025

Raa Atoll 2025

Upcoming MMPRC Fairs

Source: MMPRC/ Visit Maldives

ECONOMIC UPDATE

Source: Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA)

MATATO

Indian market - IMPACT and analysis

Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) initiated on Monday, 8th January 2024 a Hotel Reservations and Impact Study MATATO, recognizing the importance of staying abreast of industry dynamics, invited a diverse range of stakeholders to participate in this comprehensive survey, focusing on the repercussions of recent online events on hotel reservations, from the Indian source market. The insights garnered from this survey are deemed crucial for understanding the current state of the industry.

The survey, encompassing resorts, guesthouses, liveaboards, hotels, and airlines employed a multifaceted approach. Information was gathered through Google Forms, phone calls, and direct outreach to various suppliers and agents. Key areas of investigation included the total number of reservations cancelled in the past few days, the percentage of cancellations compared to the usual rate, reasons behind cancellations, impact on revenue, future outlook, communication and public relations strategies, and recommendations for mitigating the challenges faced.

MATATO's commitment to such research aims to provide the industry with valuable data, enabling stakeholders to adapt and strategize effectively in response to the evolving landscape.

Weekly flights from India to Maldives

• Vistara - 2 flights, Mumbai & Delhi daily

• Air India - Bangalore, Mumbai 6 flight weekly

• Indigo - operates 4 flights per day Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Cochin

• Maldivian - Bangalore 2 days weekly

• Maldivian - Trivandrum 5 days weekly

• Maldivian - Cochin 4 days weekly

Tourist Arrivals from India, 2016-2023

Methodology

The research methodology employed is a mixed approach, integrating elements of both quantitative and qualitative research. The study encompassed diverse accommodations such as resorts, guesthouses, liveaboards, hotels and airlines. Information was collected through a multifaceted approach, utilizing Google Forms, phone calls, and direct outreach to a variety of suppliers and agents. We gathered information from over 200 contact points from a cross section in below segment representation

Tourist Arrivals from India, 2016-2023

Tourist Monthly from India, 2023

Top 10 Markets, 2023

• 86% of Indian travellers plan to take the same number, if not more, trips abroad in 2024 compared to 2023

• 43% of Indian travellers rate the overall ‘vibe’ of a destination as important when choosing where to go in 2024*

• 26% of Indian travellers say the cost of flights mostly determines their choice of destination

• 63% of Indian travellers have budgeted to spend more on travel in 2024 compared to 2023

• 39% of Indian travellers use film and TV as a source of travel inspiration.

Skyscanner Indian Travel Trends Snapshot

Since 2020, India has stood out as the primary source market for the Maldives, with the market undergoing significant expansion over the past half-decade, culminating in its dominance from 2020 to 2023. Notably, Indian arrivals experienced a substantial surge in 2019, propelled by the commendable connectivity between the Maldives and various destinations in India. In that pivotal year, the market exhibited an impressive growth rate of 83.5% compared to the preceding year, with total arrivals from India escalating from 66,955 in 2016 to 166,030 in 2019. The subsequent years saw fluctuations, with 2020 recording 62,960 Indian tourists, 2021 witnessing a noteworthy spike to 291,787, followed by 2022 with 241,369, and a further decline to 209,198 in 2023.

Indian Market saw a decline from 241,369 tourists in 2022 to 209,198 in 2023, marking a -13.3% decline.

As a short-haul market, the Indian market solidified its market share, reaching 11.3% in 2020 and 11.1% in 2023. The year 2020 marked the first instance of the market holding a double-digit share. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, a travel bubble between the Maldives and India was established, leading to a gradual rebound in Indian arrivals from October 2020 onwards. The peak in 2021 was influenced by quarantine tourism, where Indians travelled to the Middle East with a transit period in the Maldives, resulting in 291,787 arrivals. Among the direct flights from India, Indigo emerged as the carrier with the highest passenger load. The preferred accommodation for Indian tourists, especially transit visitors en route to other destinations, became guesthouses, prompting many establishments to tailor special packages for the Indian market.

Historically, May and December were the peak months for the Indian market. However, the irregular monthly pattern observed in 2020 and 2021 can be attributed to the pandemic and pent-up demand.

Indian market retained its status as the leading source market in 2023, with 209,198 tourists, closely followed by Russiawith209,146,a difference of a mere 52tourists

From 2022 to 2023, the Maldives experienced a decline in the Indian market, dropping from 241,369 in 2022 to 209,198 in 2023, marking a -13.3% decline. Despite this decrease, the Indian market retained its status as the leading source market in 2023, with 209,198 tourists, closely followed by Russia with 209,146, a difference of a mere 52 tourists. Russian tourists were noted for longer stays and higher spending, contrasting with Indian travellers who tended to be more budget-conscious with shorter stays. Speculation has arisen about the accuracy of Indian surface arrivals, with concerns that business travellers may register as tourists for short stays, and discussions about potential stays in unregistered facilities within the parallel economy.

A recent survey by MATATO indicated limited cancellations and minimal slowdown following a recent incident. The analysis of January's pickup trends aligns with the natural decline observed in arrivals and booking trends during the same period in previous years.

From 2014 to 2018, MATATO played a pivotal role in the development of the Indian market, surpassing the efforts of the Tourism Board in promoting the destination. MATATO spearheaded the participation in key trade fairs such as OTM, SATTE, BITB, and IITM, being the first association to do so. It also organized numerous roadshows in India, demonstrating foresight when belief in the Indian market was not widespread. In 2018, a destination showcase named Maldivian Night was hosted in Mumbai, India, organized by MATATO at the Four Seasons, Mumbai, attracting over 200 travel professionals from both countries. This event was part of MATATO's ongoing campaign to attract 100,000 tourists from India.

In 2017, the Maldives welcomed 83,019 tourists from India, marking a 24% growth from the previous year. India emerged as a more substantial source market for the Maldives compared to traditional markets like Switzerland, Russia, Japan, and Korea. To sustain this growth momentum, MATATO actively participated in five travel trade shows in India in 2016 and 2017:

• SATTE India – February 2016

• BITB New Delhi, India – October 2016

• SATTE India – February 2017

• India International Travel Mart (IITM) Bangalore, India – July 2017

• SATTE India – January 2018

Additionally, MATATO organized a roadshow in partnership with OTR in Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Delhi in March 2018. The association collaborated closely with the Embassy of India in the Maldives and engaged a PR firm in India for publicity and promotions. In 2017, MATATO signed a partnership with the Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI), a dynamic organization guiding the travel industry in India with over 1400 members. This partnership aimed at aggressively promoting the Maldives to Indian travel agents and tour operators.

With a target of reaching 100,000 tourists from India by the end of 2019, MATATO collaborated with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Tourism and MMPRC. The association firmly believed in India's potential to become the Maldives' number one source market within the next five years, a vision set in 2016. Despite challenges, MATATO, as local agents, embraced unconventional strategies, exploring uncharted territories, especially in the less favourable years from 2010 to 2018, when many resorts were uncertain about catering to clients from the Indian market.

MATATO Aviation Committee meets Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation

The MATATO Aviation Committee recently engaged in a fruitful discussion with Minister Mohamed Ameen, focusing on key issues within the supervision industry. The committee underscored its commitment to safeguarding local interests and ensuring a conducive business environment.

The meeting highlighted the committee's pursuit of a robust regulatory framework to protect local agencies, with assurances from the Minister on this front. Additionally, efforts to secure competitive rates for local agents were discussed, including proposals for special rates by Ground Handling Agents (GHAs) and airports to foster industry growth and employment opportunities.

Inclusivity in decision-making processes within the aviation sector was emphasized, with active involvement of local agents. The committee also advocated for a 24/7 permit generation system, drawing inspiration from successful models like the UAE.

Lastly, the committee pressed for industry regulation by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), proposing periodic audits to ensure safety standards adherence, staff training, and formalized agreements between GHAs and supervision agents.

The MATATO Aviation Committee looks forward to ongoing collaboration with the Ministry to address these critical industry concerns and contribute to the sustainability of the Maldives' aviation sector.

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

MMPRC appoints new Managing Director & DMD

Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) has welcomed Fathimath Thaufeeq as its newly appointed Managing Director. Armed with a Master's in Business Administration from the University of West of England (UWE), Thaufeeq brings a distinguished record of achievements from various management roles.

Concurrently, Mohamed Bassam Adam assumes the crucial role of Deputy Managing Director at MMPRC. With a career spanning over 20 years, Bassam has amassed extensive experience ranging from ticketing to hotel bookings. His educational includes an Advanced Diploma in Tourism Management, reflecting his commitment to advancing his skills in the tourism sector. Bassam's notable impact extends beyond his professional roles, as evidenced by his active involvement as a Treasurer of Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO). In this influential capacity, he has played a vital role in shaping industry policies and advocating for the interests of travel agents and tour operators, contributing significantly to the overall growth and development of the sector.

Macao to host PATA Annual Summit

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has announced that the bid for hosting the PATA Annual Summit 2024 has been awarded to the Macao Government Tourism Office. This prestigious annual event will be supported by SJM Resorts, S.A. and will be held from May 15 – 17, 2024 at the Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau. The event is set to bring together international thought leaders, industry shapers and senior decision-makers who are professionally engaged in driving tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region.

The extensive program, comprised of plenary sessions, breakout sessions, the PATA Executive Board and Board meetings, and the Annual General Meeting, will provide a platform for PATA’s public and private sector members and partners, and most importantly PATA Chapters and PATA Youth from around the world to discuss the challenges, issues and opportunities facing the industry as it looks towards the responsible and sustainable growth, value, and quality of tourism in the region.

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.