News
Half a million tourists visit Maldives in five months
Maldives.net.mv – With an impressive 14.9% increase in arrivals during the month of May 2014, tourist arrivals to the Maldives continue to flourish, reaching half a million from January to May 2014. The Maldives welcomed a total of 518,166 tourists for the period, registering a strong growth of 11.9% over the same the period of 2013.
Although Asia and the Pacific Region took lead as the market generator during the month of May 2014, Europe remained as the market leader with 48.3% shares at the end of the period from January to May 2014. The region brought in an additional 34,544 tourists during the month of May, which was a decline of -1.8% compared to that of May 2013. Tourist arrivals from European region reached a total of 253,602 at the end May 2014, registering a marginal growth of 0.7% for the period. With the negative growth seen from sub regions, Central/Eastern Europe (-10.3%) and Western Europe (-5.6%) during the month of May 2014, the overall growth rate from both the regions resulted negative growths of -5.1% and -0.6% respectively, for the period from January to May 2014. Best performance for the month of May was recorded from East Mediterranean Europe with a positive 41.5% increase. While Southern Europe posted a +15% growth during the month of May resulting in a positive growth of 5.3% at the end of the period January to May, Northern Europe registered a growth rate of 4.3% for the month of May leading to an increase of +7.2% for the period in review. In terms of market shares, the two sub regions which posted negative growths covered most of the arrivals from Europe. While a total of 105,923 tourists taking hold of 20% shares was recorded for the Western Europe, Central Eastern Europe took hold of 10.6% shares with 54,691 arrivals. When looking at individual market performances from Europe, top five markets were Germany, U.K, Russia, Italy and France. The German market maintained its position at the top with 8.3% shares. With an additional 8,365 tourists in May 2014, the total arrivals from Germany for the period from January to May 2014 was 43,188 resulting in a slight increase of 0.9% for the period. The U.K market did well with a 4.6% increase at the end of May 2014, supplying 7.7% to market shares for the period. The Russian market deteriorated further posting a negative growth of 7.5% for the period from January to May 2014. Market share of Russia stood at 6.4% at the end of the period. Italy and France remained at 4th and 5th positions respectively with 6.0% share and 5.9% shares. While the Italian market has shown improvements posting a positive growth of 1.7% at the end of May 2014, the French market performed with a negative growth of 3.6%.
Asia and the Pacific region has been showing outstanding results throughout the last five months of 2014. The region overtook Europe, to be the leading market generator during the month of May 2014 taking hold of 55% of total arrivals to the Maldives during the month. With a total of 50,354 tourists in May, the total arrivals from the Region for the period from January to May 2014, was recorded to be 229,847, which was a 24.7% increase over the same period of 2013. The region represented 44.4% of all arrivals during the period January to May 2014. All sub regions posted above average growth rates with South East Asia as the leading sub region with 64.1% in terms of growth rate. Over 75% of all arrivals from Asia and the Pacific and 33% of total arrivals to Maldives during the period from January to May, came from sub region North East Asia. By individual market performances, China continues to show remarkable performances maintaining its number one position as the market leader with more than 27% shares. At the end of May 2014, a total of 141,249 tourists arrived in Maldives from China, which was 23.3% increase over the same period of 2013. India, Japan and Korea were the second, third and fourth markets respectively from this region. Indian market saw an increase of 13.1% during the period in review contributing 3.5% as market shares at the end of the period. The Japanese market improved its performance posting an impressive growth rate of nearly 16% during the month of May leading to a positive 7.1% growth rate for the period from January to May 2014. A strong growth of 45% was recorded from the Korean market during this period with the arrivals reaching a total of 14,016 at the end of May. Market share of Korea stood at 2.7% at the end of the period.
Americas, which was the third leading region with 3.4% shares, brought in 17,470 tourists to the Maldives during the period January to May 2014. A healthy growth of 32% was recorded from this region for the period. The U.S. market took hold of over 60% of arrivals from the region with a total of 10,483 tourists at the end of the period. The Middle East market share was increased to 2.7% maintained at 2.6% during the period. This region also posted an impressive growth of 24.2% for the period. Double digit growth rates were recorded from all major markets from the region. Africa region market share remained at 0.6% at the end of May 2014. Although a negative growth (-6.8%) was recorded from this region for the month of May 2014, the overall growth rate remained positive at 1.4% at the end of the period from January to May 2014.
At the end of May 2014, the total number of registered tourist establishments reached 460 with 30,510 beds, out of which on average 291 establishments with a sum total of 27,004 beds were operational during the period in review. These include 105 tourist resorts (23,029 beds), 17 hotels (1,510 beds), 112 guest houses (1,539 beds) and 57 safari vessels (927 beds). The overall bed nights of these establishments saw an increase of 5.9% during the period reaching a total of 3,262,667 nights. While the occupancy rate recorded an increase of 2.3% to attain an average of 80.2% for the period, average duration of stay of the tourists saw a decline of 0.4%. The average duration of stay for the period was 6.3 days.
Source: Ministry of Tourism
This Easter, elevate your holiday with a glamorous escape to the sun-kissed shores of SO/ Maldives. Nestled like a private fashion-forward sanctuary in the ethereal Emboodhoo Lagoon, just a chic 15-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport, this avant-garde island retreat sets the stage for a dazzling celebration of style, indulgence, and adventure.
With an air of effortless sophistication, SO/ Maldives invites you to embrace the spirit of Easter in the most fashionable way; where gourmet indulgence, holistic wellness, and bespoke island experiences come together in a setting as breathtaking as a runway debut.
Easter at SO/ Maldives is an affair of refined taste, with exquisite dining experiences curated for the most discerning palates. Step into a world of haute cuisine with the Crustacean & Wine Pairing Set Dinner at The Citronelle Club, where a Master Sommelier orchestrates an exquisite fusion of ocean-fresh seafood and fine vintages. As the night unfolds, Lazuli unveils a Master Wine Menu, where a handpicked selection of wines is savored against the backdrop of chillout DJ beats and the Maldivian starlit sky.
For a sunset soirée, sip on signature cocktails at Pavilion Bar’s Sunset Hour, before indulging in a three-course beachfront dinner at Lazuli Beach, where culinary artistry meets seaside elegance. The Easter revelry culminates with the Easter Extravaganza Beach BBQ at Citronelle, a lavish beachfront affair complete with gourmet delights and live music by the Rishvan Imon Duo; an evening of pure island glamour.
For those seeking serene indulgence, SO/ SPA Easter Wellness Camp unveils an oasis of holistic renewal. Chakra Balancing, Walking Meditation, and Sound Meditation create the perfect harmony between mind, body, and soul, ensuring that guests emerge refreshed and radiant. Exclusive spa offerings provide a tailored touch of luxury, with overwater and beachfront sanctuaries designed for the ultimate escape into tranquility.
Easter at SO/ Maldives isn’t just about indulgence; it’s also about art, adventure, and meaningful connections. Families can revel in the Easter Family Egg Hunt & Games at Lazuli Beach Club, while creative souls embrace island artistry with workshops like Sip and Clay, Jewelry Making, and Palm Leaf Basket Weaving; a nod to the craftsmanship and heritage of the Maldives.
For the little trendsetters, The Nest transforms into a playground of Easter-themed magic, with bunny hop games, storytelling sessions, egg-painting workshops, and even a whimsical Easter puppet show; ensuring young guests enjoy an experience as enchanting as a fairytale.
For those who crave the thrill of the extraordinary, SO/ Maldives invites you to immerse yourself in the glamorous side of adventure. Dive into the mesmerizing depths of the Indian Ocean with snorkeling and diving excursions, or glide across its turquoise expanse with exhilarating activities like jet skiing, paddleboarding, and parasailing. Set sail on a sunset dolphin-watching cruise, where golden-hour hues and playful marine life create a cinematic experience that rivals the most breathtaking of fashion campaigns.
Whether celebrating with family, friends, or a special someone, Easter at SO/ Maldives promises a fusion of couture luxury, barefoot elegance, and unforgettable moments. With its exclusive island setting, curated experiences, and signature SO/ flair, this Maldivian paradise is the ultimate destination for an Easter celebration that is effortlessly stylish, indulgently chic, and truly extraordinary.
For more information or to book your perfect Eid getaway, please visit SO-Maldives.com or write to SO.Maldives.Reservations@so-hotels.com.
Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives is bringing a fresh twist to Easter celebrations with a creative LEGO-themed experience from April 20th to 25th, promising an unforgettable holiday for guests of all ages. The celebration features a vibrant blend of creativity, family adventure, and entertainment across the resort’s pristine beaches and venues including special performances by multi-awarded magician Yollin Lee and DJ Ironik, an internationally acclaimed British DJ and rapper
To enhance the experience even further, Sun Siyam Olhuveli presents a sensational lineup of entertainment. International champion magician Yollin Lee, celebrated for his award-winning sleight-of-hand performances, will dazzle audiences with his mesmerizing illusions. Additionally, the UK’s renowned DJ, producer, and rapper Ironik—who played a pivotal role in shaping British urban music—will bring his signature beats to the resort, ensuring an unforgettable evening.
The festivities kick off with an Easter egg hunt featuring LEGO-themed eggs at Sunrise Beach, followed by engaging LEGO workshops where families can unleash their creativity. As the sun sets, an evening show at Lagoon Bar Deck will bring music, dance, and dazzling lights to mark the grand opening. Throughout the celebration, guests can enjoy a variety of interactive activities. The Mosaic Challenge will have participants constructing a giant LEGO masterpiece, while little ones can enjoy the classic Egg Rolling competition at Milano Beach. Easter brunch at Island Pizza and an exclusive Easter BBQ at Water Sports Beach will add culinary delights, complemented by a Family Sandcastle Competition.
From egg painting and a LEGO hunt to Easter cookie decorating, the festivities continue to spark joy. The Egg Spoon Race across multiple beach locations, alongside a special Easter cocktail, will bring the celebration to a memorable close.
For those seeking enhanced experience, exclusive promotions such as the Family Fun Holiday package, Easter BBQ, and Water Sports Beach Carnival will be available at an additional cost. Families can also take advantage of 30% off all kids’ activities, making it the perfect time for a sun-soaked, adventure-packed holiday.
This Easter, indulge in a luxurious escape! Book a grand villa by April 20, 2025, for stays until December 23, 2025, and unlock exclusive perks—50% off à la carte dining, airport transfers, and a complimentary couple’s massage with a four-night stay. Extend to five nights in a pool villa and enjoy free round-trip transfers. Plus, enjoy irresistible discounts on room upgrades, water sports, and a romantic diving experience.
To take advantage of this offer, visit https://www.sunsiyam.com/sun-siyam-olhuveli/offers/easter-offer/.
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef invites guests to join an eco-friendly Easter extravaganza filled with family-friendly activities, special offers, and unforgettable experiences. Running from April 16th to 20th, 2025 it’s the ultimate destination for creating lasting memories with loved ones.
Get ready for an action-packed and eco-friendly Easter at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef! From Easter Egg Hunts to Bunny Basket Making and Easter Mini Olympics, we’ve packed the holidays with fun for the whole family. But this year, we’re taking a greener approach to our festivities. Our eco-friendly theme focuses on reducing waste and using sustainable materials throughout the event.
For instance, when dyeing Easter eggs, we’re opting for natural ingredients like spinach for green, beetroot for red, red cabbage for blue or purple, and turmeric for yellow. Additionally, instead of using plastic decorations, we’re choosing reusable wooden or fabric eggs to minimize environmental impact.
Our SuperLEDShow, featuring internationally acclaimed performers Dennis Kiss and Szulita Szekrényes, will dazzle you with mind-blowing light displays and acrobatics on April 19th and 20th—all part of our commitment to bringing awe-inspiring entertainment in an eco-conscious way.
To top off the celebration, enjoy a Pool Party and a special Easter Beach BBQ, with sustainability at the heart of every detail. Join us for a fun-filled Easter that celebrates not just family, but also our beautiful planet. Sun Siyam Vilu Reef offers a perfect balance of fun, relaxation, and sustainability, ensuring your Easter getaway is unforgettable.
Easter Offer: Celebrate Easter at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef with an exclusive offer including up to 40% off accommodation, free roundtrip seaplane transfers for two with a minimum 7-night stay, a Lucky Dolphin Cruise, and a gourmet welcome platter with champagne upon arrival. Enjoy additional perks like a room upgrade (subject to availability), free snorkeling equipment, kayaking, and a Veranda breakfast during your stay. Plus, kids under 12 stay and eat for free. Book now to elevate your Easter getaway with unforgettable experiences at this stunning eco-friendly resort. Offer valid for bookings made from 16 February to 20 April 2025, for stays until 23 December 2025.
To take advantage of this offer, visit https://www.sunsiyam.com/sun-siyam-vilu-reef/offers/easter-offer/.
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