MATATO News - Nov 2024

Issue 15 | NOVEMBER 2024

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

N E W S MATATO Unveils “Maldives Finder 2025” at WTM London 2024 Read more on Page 7 ____________________________

MATATO Launches 'Frame by MATATO 2025': One of Maldives’ Biggest Art Competitions Read more on Page 8 ____________________________

MATATO Supports NHGAM in ‘I AM Maldives Roadshow’ Across Azerbaijan and Georgia Read more on Page 9 ____________________________

Institute of Tourism Hosts Webinar on Sustainable WaterBased Tourism featuring MATATO Read more on Page 10

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CONTENTS MATATO DASHBOARD

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Upcoming properties

4

Upcoming MMPRC Fairs

5

ECONOMIC UPDATE

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MATATO Unveils “Maldives Finder 2025” at WTM London 2024

7

MATATO Launches 'Frame by MATATO 2025': One of Maldives’ Biggest Art Competitions

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MATATO Supports NHGAM in ‘I AM Maldives Roadshow’ Across Azerbaijan and Georgia

9

Institute of Tourism Hosts Webinar on Water-Based Tourism featuring MATATO

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PATA Patterns 2025 Travel Trends by PATA Chapter UK & Ireland

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MATATO Addresses Key Challenges with MMA and Finance Ministry

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MATATO Partners with Villa College to Boost Tourism Education

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MATATO Engages with Parliament Committee on Immigration Bill Amendments

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MATATO ACTIVITIES 2024

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MATATO ACTIVITIES 2023

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MATATO NEWS Monthly News by MATATO Cover Photo & Photos: istockphoto/ shutterstock CONTRIBUTIONS MATATO MANAGEMENT TEAM Aminath Suzan Abdulla Ghiyas Fathimath Shaha Mohamed Shaz Waleed Ibrahim Didi Mohamed Khaleel Ibrahim Nizam Abdulla Suood Mohamed Bassam Adam 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 News

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MATATO dashboard 2023 International Tourism Arrivals (Million) 2023 International Tourism Receipts (USD Billion) 2023 Maldives Tourism Arrivals 2023 Maldives Tourism Tax Receipts (USD)

- 1,305 - 1,528 - 1,878,543 - 814,964,405

Maldives Tourist Arrivals Monthly 2024 vs 23 vs 22

Maldives Top 10 Markets 2024 (as of 21 Dec)

Maldives Top 10 Markets 2023

Tourist Accommodation (as of 21 Dec 2024)

63,118 total Operational beds in Maldives as at 21 December 2024 Monthly Arrivals, 2022 – 2024 (as of 21 Dec)

Sources: UNWTO Ministry of Tourism – Maldives Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA)

MATATO News

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Upcoming properties Property

Region

Opening

Hyatt Regency Samarafushi

North Male Atoll

2027

Aman Maldives

Vaavu Atoll

2026

Maxx Royal Maldives

North Male Atoll

2027

Capella Maldives, Fari Islands

North Male Atoll

2027

Baccarat Hotel & Residences Maldives

South Male Atoll

2027

Zamani Islands

South Male Atoll

2025

ananea Madivaru

North Ari Atoll

2025

Centara Mirage Lagoon

North Male Atoll

2024

Infinite Maldives by Cocoon

Malé Atoll

2025

Meyyafushi

Lhaviyani Atoll

2024

Avalon Maldives

Dhaalu Atoll

2024

Villa Haven

South Ari Atoll

2024

Nammos Maldives

Malé Atoll

2025

Joali Lagoon

Malé Atoll

2025

JW Marriott Emboodhoo Finolhu

Malé Atoll

2025

dusit D2 Feydhoo Finolhu

Malé Atoll

2024

Capella Maldives

Malé Atoll

2025

Centara Lagoon

Malé Atoll

2025

Centara Grand Muthaafushi

Baa Atoll

2024

Mandarin Oriental Bolidhuffaru Reef

South Male Atoll

2025

Source: Hotelier Maldives

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Upcoming MMPRC Fairs Upcoming MMPRC Fairs

5 MATATO News Source: MMPRC/ Visit Maldives* Tentative Fairs

ECONOMIC UPDATE ECONOMIC UPDATE

Source: Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA)

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MATATO Unveils “Maldives Finder 2025” at WTM London 2024 MATATO Unveils “Maldives Finder 2025” at WTM London 2024 The Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has officially launched the latest edition of its annual publication, Maldives Finder 2025, at the prestigious World Travel Market (WTM) London 2024. The launch was graced by the Minister of Tourism, Ibrahim Faisal, further emphasizing the significance of this initiative in showcasing the Maldives as a premier travel destination.

This year’s Maldives Finder 2025 has been published with the endorsement of the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) and the Ministry of Tourism. The magazine serves as a comprehensive guide, offering detailed insights into the Maldives’ rich offerings, including its unique local cuisines, photography services, and the vibrant culture and heritage of the island nation. Stunning visuals highlighting the natural beauty of the Maldives, coupled with informative content, make it an essential resource for travelers planning their dream vacation.

The publication also features contributions from influential business leaders and prominent figures in the tourism sector, sharing valuable insights and perspectives. Additionally, it provides practical and important information for visitors eager to experience the Maldives.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, MATATO CEO Aminath Suzan highlighted the magazine’s primary goal: promoting the Maldives on the global stage. “Maldives Finder 2025 is a testament to our commitment to elevate the Maldives’ tourism industry, engage with international audiences, and inspire travelers worldwide to discover the unparalleled beauty of our islands,” she said.

The Maldives Finder aims to play a pivotal role in positioning the Maldives as a top-of-mind destination for travelers, while also celebrating the country’s cultural heritage and tourism excellence on a global platform.

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MATATO Launches 'Frame by MATATO 2025': One of Maldives’ Biggest Art Competitions MATATO Launches 'Frame by MATATO 2025': One of Maldives’ Biggest Art Competitions

The Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has officially launched its annual art competition and exhibition, Frame by MATATO. This flagship initiative celebrates Maldivian creativity and highlights the nation’s rich culture, merging art and tourism in a unique way. Through Frame by MATATO, the association aims to foster interest in the local creative community while showcasing the exceptional artistic talents of Maldivians to tourists and the wider public.

The 2025 edition of Frame by MATATO will feature the theme “The Maldivian Mystic,” making it the first-ever exhibition in the Maldives to bring the nation’s folklore and mythical tales to life through art.

Artists across four age categories are encouraged to submit their work in various mediums, including drawings, paintings, 3D models, installations, and sculptures. Submissions will be accepted from 10 December 2024 to 20 January 2025.

MATATO has announced that all entries will be carefully evaluated by a distinguished panel of judges, comprising both local and international experts. From these, 10 entries in each age category will be shortlisted for the grand Art Exhibition, which will be held at the National Art Gallery during the first week of February 2025.

For the first time in Frame by MATATO, winners will be selected through public voting, allowing attendees a unique opportunity to engage directly with the artwork and the artists.

This event has garnered the support of key institutions, including the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Art, the Ministry of Dhivehi Language, Culture, and Heritage, the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), the National Centre for the Arts (NCA), the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), the Maldivian Artist Community (MAC), and the National Hotels and Guesthouses Association of Maldives (NHGAM).

Through Frame by MATATO, the association aspires to elevate Maldivian art and culture on the global stage. By providing a collaborative platform, it enables artists of all ages to express their unique interpretations of the Maldivian Mystic and share their creative visions with the world.

Interested individuals can visit www.framebymatato.com for more information and to submit their entries.

For over 18 years, MATATO has remained committed to the development of the Maldivian tourism industry through unity, empowerment, and collaboration, continuing to play a vital role in shaping the country’s tourism landscape.

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MATATO Supports NHGAM in ‘I AM Maldives Roadshow’ Across Azerbaijan and Georgia MATATO Supports NHGAM in ‘I AM Maldives Roadshow’ Across Azerbaijan and Georgia The National Hotels and Guest House Association of Maldives (NHGAM), in collaboration with the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/Visit Maldives) and the Maldives Association of Travel Agents & Tour Operators (MATATO), is proud to announce the I AM Maldives Roadshow, scheduled to take place from December 17th to 20th, 2024, in Tbilisi, Georgia, and Baku, Azerbaijan.

This dynamic B2B event is designed to enhance the Maldives’ presence in these emerging markets, promoting the destination to a broader audience and fostering stronger business connections. With participation from 18 co-exhibitors — including resorts, hotels, guesthouses, and travel agencies — the roadshow will provide a unique platform for Maldivian tourism stakeholders to connect with travel professionals, showcase their offerings, and cultivate new partnerships. The initiative also seeks to boost tourism arrivals by providing deeper insights into market trends and traveler preferences in both regions.

Abdulla Nasheed, President of NHGAM, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “The ‘I AM Maldives Roadshow’ is a milestone in our efforts to promote local island tourism in emerging markets. Azerbaijan and Georgia offer immense potential for our guesthouses and local tourism businesses. Through this roadshow, we aim to forge meaningful connections and open sustainable growth opportunities for our members.”

In preparation for the event, NHGAM and its partners are focused on strengthening regional ties with key stakeholders in both Azerbaijan and Georgia. To ensure seamless and cost-effective participation for the Maldives delegation, NHGAM has partnered with Air Arabia as the official travel partner. Additionally, Visit Maldives will organize a media and influencer familiarization trip in collaboration with Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) to further amplify the Maldives’ visibility within the Azerbaijani market.

The I AM Maldives Roadshow signals the beginning of a series of strategic initiatives aimed at expanding the Maldives’ market reach in 2025. NHGAM’s commitment to sustainable growth and its focus on emerging markets reflect a forward-thinking approach to supporting its members and promoting the Maldives as a toptier destination for travelers worldwide.

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Institute of Tourism Hosts Webinar on Sustainable Water-Based Tourism featuring MATATO Institute of Tourism Hosts Webinar on Sustainable Water-Based Tourism featuring MATATO

The Institute of Tourism recently organized a webinar titled "Water Based Tourism and Sustainability," bringing together experts from various sectors to discuss the integration of sustainable practices in aquatic tourism.

Key Speakers and Their Contributions: • • • • • • • • • •

Prof. Noel Scott: Professor of Tourism Management at the Sustainability Research Centre in Australia, Prof.

Scott shared insights on sustainable tourism management practices.

Prof. Michail Toanoglou: Academic Director at IMHI, ESSEC Business School in France, Prof. Toanoglou discussed the academic perspective on sustainable water tourism.

Ms. Aminath Suzan: CEO of the Maldives Association of Travel Agents & Tour Operators, Ms. Suzan highlighted the Maldives' initiatives in promoting sustainable aquatic tourism.

Ms. Johanna Fischer: Representing FrauBlau in Germany, Ms. Fischer focused on pioneering water innovation through tourism.

Dr. Madura Thivanka: Senior Lecturer and Sustainable Tourism Scholar at Edith Cowan University in Sri Lanka, Dr. Thivanka provided academic insights into sustainable tourism.

Ms. Sonja Gottlebe: A Sustainable Tourism Expert and Eco-Lodge Pioneer from Madagascar, Ms. Gottlebe shared her experiences in developing eco-friendly tourism accommodations.

Mr. Jakub Kondelka: Leading global sales at RIXEN Cableway in Germany, Mr. Kondelka discussed eco-friendly solutions in the tourism sector, particularly near-zero-emission cableway systems.

Mr. Alexis de Suremain: Hospitality Business Developer and Operator in Cambodia, Mr. de Suremain shared his experiences in sustainable hospitality operations.

Ms. Catherine Germier Hamel: Founder & CEO of Millennium Destinations in France, Ms. Hamel discussed sustainable destination marketing strategies.

Dr. Reza Soltani: President of the Institute of Tourism in Belgium, Dr. Soltani provided opening remarks and moderated the session.

The webinar emphasized the need for sustainable practices in water-based tourism to protect aquatic ecosystems and ensure long-term viability. Discussions included innovative solutions, such as eco-friendly cableway systems, and the role of community engagement in promoting sustainability.

For more information and access to the speakers' presentations, visit the Institute of Tourism's official website.

To watch the full webinar, click on the video below: https://institutetourism.com/watertourism/

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PATA Patterns 2025 Travel Trends by PATA Chapter UK & Ireland The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland has unveiled its 2025 PATA Patterns report, highlighting emerging travel trends across the Pacific Asia region.

The report draws insights from PATA’s extensive network, including tourist boards, tour operators, airlines, and hoteliers, aiming to equip travel agents with actionable guidance for 2025. It also features over 20 new tours and experiences, eight upcoming hotels, nine new airline routes, and training tips tailored for the region.

Chris Crampton, Chairman of PATA UK & Ireland Chapter, remarked: “Pacific Asia is poised for a great year ahead, as 2025 travel trends bring an exciting mix of opportunities for agents.”

Key Travel Trends for 2025 •

Amazing Agents: Travel agents continue to play a vital role in handling complex itineraries, sustainability preferences, and niche travel demands. PATA is supporting them with a full schedule of 2025 events.

•

Away from the Crowds: Secondary destinations are on the rise as travellers seek personalised, crowd-free experiences. Tourism boards are promoting these locations to combat over-tourism.

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The Real Deal: There’s a growing shift towards immersive, hyper-local experiences, moving away from massmarket tours.

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The Sky’s the Limit: Expanded airline routes and restored flight capacity are making travel to the region more affordable and accessible.

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Wildlife Awaits: Wildlife-focused tourism is booming, with standout experiences like observing Malayan Tigers in Malaysia, elephant care in Thailand, snorkeling with dugongs in Vietnam, and panda sightings in China.

•

Sustainability Seekers: Eco-conscious travel options are in demand as travellers prioritise sustainable tourism practices.

•

Rooms with Roots: Hotels are increasingly incorporating local culture and identity into their designs, offering authentic experiences that support surrounding communities.

•

Set-Jetting: Film and TV-inspired tourism is surging, with Pacific Asia becoming a top destination for fans of onscreen locations.

•

Sporty Stays: Sports tourism continues to thrive, fuelled by major events and growing interest in active holidays.

The PATA Patterns report positions travel agents to capitalise on these trends, ensuring a vibrant and successful 2025 for Pacific Asia tourism.

MATATO Addresses Key Challenges with MMA and Finance Ministry The Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) recently held a productive meeting with the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), the nation’s central bank, to discuss challenges faced by local travel agents regarding dollar regulations.

Maldives Celebrates Arrival of 1 Millionth Tourist

In addition, MATATO has formally written to the Minister of Finance, addressing concerns over the proposed tax increases and the airport departure tax.

MATATO remains committed to advocating for its members and safeguarding the growth and competitiveness of the Maldives tourism sector.

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MATATO Partners with Villa College to Boost Tourism Education

The Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has signed an MOU with Villa College to enhance academic and professional opportunities for its members and foster future talent in tourism.

The partnership grants MATATO members access to tailored courses and training programs, along with exclusive discounts, to address the evolving needs of the industry. It also supports human capital development, a key MATATO priority, through initiatives aimed at equipping professionals with essential skills.

Additionally, the MOU introduces a MATATO Student Chapter at Villa International School, nurturing the next generation of tourism professionals.

This collaboration reinforces MATATO’s commitment to strengthening the Maldives’ tourism workforce and its global reputation as a leading travel destination.

MATATO Engages with Parliament Committee on Immigration Bill Amendments

The Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) recently met with the Parliament Committee to discuss proposed amendments to the Immigration Bill.

During the meeting, MATATO highlighted concerns and shared industry perspectives on how the proposed changes could impact tourism and local travel businesses. The association emphasized the need for policies that support the growth of the tourism sector while addressing national priorities.

MATATO remains committed to engaging with stakeholders and advocating for balanced regulations that benefit both the tourism industry and the broader Maldivian economy.

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MATATO ACTIVITIES 2024

continues..

December •

MATATO met and thanked H.E. Ambassador Wang Lixin for strengthening Maldives-China ties, in her farewell call Frame by MATATO 2025 celebrates Maldivian creativity through the theme ‘The Maldivian Mystic,’ bringing folklore to life in the nation’s first-ever art exhibition of its kind MATATO Talks, Episode 3 on Art and Tourism, premiers on ICE TV MATATO was on talks shows on Sangu TV, Aslu TV, VTV MATATO warns travellers to stay cautious of fraudulent websites charging fees for Maldives tourist visas Successfully concluded ‘I AM MALDIVES ROADSHOW' in Azerbaijan & Georgia, an initiative by NHGAM in collaboration with MATATO & Visit Maldives

MATATO ACTIVITIES 2024 • • • • •

November • • • • • •

Transport Minister Ameen announced new measures to ensure jet handling revenue benefits Maldivians, MATATO lobbied since January for this MATATO Launches Maldives Finder 2025 at World Travel Mart (WTM) 2024 on 5th November MATATO Talks, Episode 2 on Human Resources, premiers on ICE TV Air Arabia Partners with NHGAM for I AM Maldives Roadshow in collaboration with Visit Maldives & MATATO Institute of Tourism Hosts Webinar on Sustainable Water-Based Tourism featuring MATATO MATATO met MMA and Finance Ministry

October • • • • •

EaseMyTrip resumes Maldives bookings amid renewed India-Maldives relations, MATATO intermediated many discussions Villa College and MATATO have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to elevate tourism education and professional development NHGAM, MMPRC and MATATO announce Maldives Roadshow in Georgia and Azerbaijan happening in December 2024 MATATO participates and speaks at Maldives Internet Governance Forum 2024 MATATO Talks, Episode 1 - Data and AI in Tourism, premiers on ICE TV

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MATATO ACTIVITIES 2024

continues..

September • • • • •

MATATO and ICE Network Partners to Produce "MATATO Talks" Hotelier Maldives GM Forum 2024 to feature panel on ‘Redefining the Luxury Travel Experience’ MMPRC in collaboration with NHGAM and MATATO along with 23 industry partners represented the Maldives at the Asian Tourism Fair (ATF) Dhaka from 19-21 September MATATO Partners with WTM Organisers for WTM London 2024 The post conference report of the Women’s Edition of the Maldives Travel Conference 2024 was presented to the Minister Aishath Shiham.

August • • • • • • • •

MATATO supported the relaunch of Malaysian Airlines in the Maldives at Velana Airport event MATATO Joins Forces with MMPRC and NGHAM to Promote Maldives at ATF-Dhaka 2024 Fundamentals of Digital Marketing training held for MATATO facilitated by Business Center Corporation at SEED MATATO made a courtesy call to the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Maldives, His Excellency Ranga Goonawardena MATATO holds Maldives Travel Conference 2024 – Women’s Edition at Hotel Jen Male’ MATATO Endorses Government’s Financial Reforms and Supports Dollar Taxation MMPRC/Visit Maldives, in collaboration with the MATATO showcased the diverse tourism offerings at the PATA Travel Mart 2024, held from August 27-29 in Bangkok, Thailand.

MATATO Receives the Certificate of Special Recognition at PATA Travel Mart 2024 in Bangkok

July • • • • • •

Maldives Travel Awards 2024 opens for nominations MATATO announces to Host First-Ever All-Women Maldives Travel Conference in partnership with Hotel Jen Male' MATATO opens registration for the free training on FUNDAMENTALS OF DIGITAL MARKETING organised by BCC curated for MATATO MATATO announces opening registrations for MATATO Male’ Student Chapter MATATO and the National Boating Association of Maldives (NBAM) had a productive meeting and discussed areas to lobby together on policy, and addressed common challenges faced by the industry MMPRC, MATATO, and NHGAM, along with the Ministry of Tourism, held the "Welcome India" Road Show in New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore

June • • • • •

MATATO raises concerns over low tourist arrivals for the month of May Celebrating World Environment Day and World Oceans Day “GO GREEN, RECYCLE AND WIN” MATATO, in collaboration with WAMCO started a recycling campaign MATATO, NHGAM and MMPRC announces partnership to hold Maldives Tourism Roadshow in India MATATO participated and supported the inaugural flight from Chongqing to the Maldives at VIA Maldives Welcomed the 1 Millionth tourist and our Associated participated in the arrival event

May • • • • • • • •

MATATO rejects World Bank's claims of guesthouses pulling down Maldives' GDP MATATO addressed the Press Event organised by MMPRC at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai on 6 May 2024 MMPRC in collaboration with MATATO announced to represent Destination Maldives in three prominent travel fairs in the Southeast Asia Chair of PATA Maldives Chapter presented at PATA Chapter Congress in Macau, PAS 2024 MATATO endorsed the upcoming Air Service World Congress to be hosted by Velana International Airport in the Maldives from 9-11 July 2024 MATATO announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) MATATO and NHGAM (National Hotel and Guesthouse Association of Maldives) had a productive meeting to explore avenues to collaborate together On 27 May between MATATO and WAMCO discussed how both organizations can work together, especially to promote a sustainable environment

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MATATO ACTIVITIES 2024

continues..

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 continues..

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

MATATO ACTIVITIES 2024 • • • 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 AntiCorruption 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 discuss 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

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MATATO ACTIVITIES 2023 December • •

MATATO hosts Destination Workshop for stakeholders MATATO Aviation Committee meets Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation

November

MATATO ACTIVITIES 2023 • • •

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

• •

MATATO joins in welcoming the One Millionth Tourist to Maldives Launches Maldives Travel Awards 2023 nominations.

July

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

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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. © MATATO NEWS All rights reserved 2024.

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 NEWS MATATO NEWS MATATO NEWS MATATO NEWS MATATO NEWS MATATO NEWS MATATO NEWS MATATO NEWS growth MATATO of the industry) 0CTOBER 2023 November 2023 DECEMBER 2023 January 2024 February 2024 MARCH 2024 APRIL 2024 MAY 2024 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 MATATO News 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.

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