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Visit Maldives unveils major campaign with Expedia in four key markets
Visit Maldives has commenced a major campaign with Expedia Group to promote Maldives as one of the most secluded and serene destinations in the world for tourists.
The purpose of this four-month campaign targeting Russia, Middle East, China and India, among the key source markets of the destination, is to assure potential travellers that the Maldives remains one of the most accessible destinations during this unprecedented situation.
The key messaging of this campaign will highlight the unique geographical formation of the island nation, owing to the natural dispersion of the islands, ensuring a worry free holiday for travellers.
Created in partnership with Expedia Group Media Solutions, the marketing organisation of Expedia Group, this campaign is expected to reach over 23 million people, targeting potential travellers in all the phases of the consumer journey in the focus markets.
Through this campaign, notable achievements to the destination such as winning the World’s Leading Destination, achieving the Safe Travels Stamp by World Travel and Tourism Council, launching of Maldives Border Miles and Allied Inbound will also be highlighted on the destination landing page on the platform.
Experiences which are unique to the destination will also be portrayed to entice travellers.
Expedia Group is one of the world’s leading full-service online travel brands helping travellers easily plan and book travel from the widest selection of vacation packages, flights, hotels, vacation rentals, rental cars, cruises, activities, attractions, and services.
The year 2021 started with focus on new strategies that have been adopted to ensure the goals of achieving pre-pandemic arrival. In this regard, several marketing activities are already in the pipeline such as joint promotions with tour operators and airlines, participation in key travel trade fairs, roadshows and familiarisation trips targeted to media, influencers and celebrities to promote the destination in various markets.
Besides these activities, prominence would be given to digital, social media and virtual activities to maintain the destination presence and promote Maldives as the most preferred destination across the globe.
By the end of 2020, Maldives celebrated the remarkable achievement of receiving 500,000 tourists amid an ongoing pandemic.
Currently, the Russian market is one of the top performing markets according to the latest statistics by the tourism ministry. India and Middle Eastern markets are also showing steady growth in terms of arrivals.
While China has been one of the traditionally strongest markets in terms of arrivals to Maldives prior to the pandemic, several marketing efforts are still underway to maintain the presence in the Chinese market as it opens for outbound travel again.
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives will mark the festive season with a programme that combines charitable initiatives with its sustainability commitments. Guests will be invited to donate, run, paddle and plant in support of local community and environmental projects, alongside dining experiences that highlight Maldivian produce.
Under its World of Care commitments, the resort has adopted initiatives to improve the school experience for children at R. Maduvvari School on the neighbouring island and to protect the surrounding marine ecosystem. Participation in the season’s activities will contribute directly to these programmes.
From 25 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, guests may purchase wrapped gifts from a Christmas Charity Surprise Tree, with all proceeds directed to the resort’s charitable causes.
On 27 December 2025, Euro Divers will lead a coral-planting session within the house reef. The activity forms part of an ongoing conservation effort to strengthen reef resilience by increasing coral diversity through the careful planting of hardy coral fragments.
Seasalt restaurant will host a “Boat to Table” beachfront barbecue on 28 December 2025 and 4 January 2026. The buffet will feature seafood such as giant tuna sashimi, ceviche and grilled fish prepared from the day’s catch supplied by local fishermen, reflecting the resort’s focus on local sourcing and support for the Raa Atoll community.
A Charity Kayak Race will take place on 30 December 2025 and 5 January 2026. Entry will be by voluntary donation, with funds supporting enhancements at the R. Maduvvari pre-school.
On 2 January 2026, the programme will conclude with a Charity Island Fun Run around the island. Branded t-shirts will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the resort’s community initiatives.
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort has received three titles at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, named Luxury Adults Only Resort, Luxury Island Resort, and Luxury Cultural Resort in the Indian Ocean.
The awards highlight the brand’s focus on locally rooted hospitality, with stays shaped by place, service and community. The resort presents Maldivian culture through curated experiences, pairing contemporary comforts with island traditions.
Positioned as an adults-only retreat, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo integrates culinary influences and cultural programming to offer guests a stay informed by the rhythm of local life and delivered with consistent service standards.
“These awards are a true reflection of our team’s passion for creating experiences that feel both local and memorable. Every detail, from the design to the service, is guided by the authenticity that defines Mercure. We are grateful to our guests for being part of this journey,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, honouring properties that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and celebrate diversity across the travel sector.
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has received three honours at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, securing titles for Best Luxury All-Inclusive Hotel, Best Luxury Wellness Hotel, and Best Luxury Family Hotel in the Indian Ocean.
The awards underscore the resort’s approach to experience-led hospitality, combining design, wellbeing and guest engagement. The recognition also reflects Pullman’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity and sustainability, which sit at the centre of the brand’s strategy.
Since opening, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has developed an all-inclusive offering that brings together adventure, wellness and a close connection to the natural environment. Its portfolio includes an underwater villa, wellness concepts and family-oriented experiences.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition at the 2025 World Luxury Awards. These awards celebrate the heart of what we do—creating inspiring moments for every guest, whether they come to reconnect, recharge, or simply play. This achievement belongs to our incredible team, whose passion and dedication make Pullman Maldives Maamutaa what it is today,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, highlighting hotels that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and demonstrate innovation in service and design.
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