Tourism Soars in Maldives: Over 441,000 Visitors Recorded in First Months of 2026

The Maldives is experiencing a robust surge in international tourism, with more than 441,000 visitors recorded so far this year, according to the latest figures released by the Ministry of Tourism and Environment. 

The archipelago nation is averaging around 8,000 tourist arrivals per day in 2024—marking a significant increase from the 7,300 daily average during the same period last year. Notably, 217,000 tourists arrived in February alone, a 40,000-visitor increase compared to February 2025, underscoring the country’s growing appeal as a top global destination. 

Of the total 444,000 visitors, the majority—over 300,000—chose luxury resorts for their stay, while around 100,000 opted for locally-run guesthouses, highlighting the balanced growth across accommodation sectors. An additional 12,000 tourists embarked on safari-style liveaboard experiences, drawn by the nation’s pristine coral reefs and world-renowned diving spots. 

Among inbound travelers, China leads the source market with over 72,000 visitors, followed by Russia and Italy. A smaller but notable segment includes 1,300 business travelers and 1,000 cruise guests, reflecting Maldives’ expanding appeal beyond leisure tourism. 

With over 45,000 tourist beds currently available across its resort islands and local communities, the country is well-positioned to accommodate rising demand. 

Last year, the Maldives welcomed a record 2.2 million tourists, and early 2026 indicators suggest this figure could be surpassed, reinforcing the tourism sector’s vital role in the nation’s economy.