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Tourism promotion activities yield positive results for Maldives

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2 years ago

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Dubai, UAE – One of the main concerns of some of the tourism sector entrepreneurs is that the Maldives is not promoted adequately. According to them, it can be done more vigorously. Similar comments were heard from some exhibitors who participated at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), the Middle East’s largest tourism fair now underway in Dubai.

On the other hand, the state-run marketing company Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), which promotes Maldives as a tourism destination, also has concerns. The agency do not have that kind of budget. This has always been a complaint by MMPRC.

Despite additional challenges, MMPRC’s efforts have yielded very good results, said Thoyyib Mohamed, managing director of the company. At a press conference titled, Maldives Media Meet, held on Tuesday as part of the ATM fair, Thoyyib highlighted this to foreign journalists with statistics and numbers.

“The foundation of this success lies in the changes in marketing approaches made during the pandemic. With these changes, we are now able to move gears rapidly to different markets,” said Thoyyib.

The Maldives is one of the first countries to reopen its borders during the Covid-19 pandemic. The border was closed in March 2020 and reopened in July 2020. Thoyyib said the opening of the border in such a short span of time also led to positive results.

“At the end of last year, we were able to overcome the pandemic completely. Last year, we were able to attract tourist numbers that were only 2% lower than the record arrivals in pre-pandemic 2019,” Thoyyib said.

While the Maldives borders have been opened, the borders of other countries (especially major local tourism markets such as China) remained closed. MMPRC’s search for other markets was overshadowed by the start of the Russia-Ukraine war last year.

“Everyone knows that 2022 was not going to be an easy year to find new markets. The crisis (Russia-Ukraine war) in Eastern Europe had a huge impact on the number of tourists coming from countries in those regions,” Thoyyib said.

“We are grateful for what we have achieved despite these challenges. We have been the World’s Leading Destination for three consecutive years since 2020. We won the World’s Leading Tourism Board award last year.”

Pandemic taught new tricks

Thoyyib said that with the pandemic, MMPRC had learnt that they cannot stay in the comfort zone too long. With the lessons learnt from Covid and the changes that have been brought about by it, MMPRC can now work more closely with the tourists, he said. This has resulted in social media campaigns that have been customised separately for each market. If needed, they change their campaigns in a single day the way they want to.

“With major markets like China shutting down and eastern European markets facing challenges, we were able to shift our focus to completely new markets. The newer markets that are now part of our tourist arrivals will testify to our success,” Thoyyib said.

“In the last three years, altogether new markets have seen tremendous improvements in comparison to our traditional ones. It is heartening to note that one of these markets is in the Middle East.”

Thoyyib said:

  • Far-flung markets such as Brazil have seen significant gains
  • Small markets in Eastern Europe have expanded over the past three years
  • During this period, changes were also made in the way the country is marketed; from virtual activities on various platforms to physical events that are currently being attended by visiting places

“When we started participating in physical events, the costs went up. However, these platforms have made great progress,” Thoyyib said.

“It is because of the strength of our marketing that we have reached this milestone in tourism today. Last year alone, we had more than 178 different marketing activities around the world. More than 5.2 billion people were reached through these activities. The reach generated by our PR agencies across the world is more than 1.2 billion.”

2023: A promising year

After describing the work done last year, Thoyyib shared the results of the first quarter of this year. The results show, he said, “it’s been a promising year.”

“There has been an increase of 21% in tourist arrivals in the first quarter of this year ascompared to the same period last year. During the same period, tax revenue from tourism increased by 28%. As a small island nation with few sources of income, it is important to serve the masses and invest in the future,” Thoyyib said.

“With these positive numbers, the rapid growth in the economy has also been sustained. So the trajectory shows that this year’s results are going to be good.”

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Awards

Kudadoo Maldives secures top 1% global ranking with prestigious TripAdvisor award

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4 days ago

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May 29, 2025

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Kudadoo Maldives Private Island by Hurawalhi has been named a ‘Best of the Best’ winner in the prestigious 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards. This elite honour places Kudadoo among the top 1% of hotels worldwide, a distinction earned through consistently outstanding guest reviews and ratings over the past year.

Building on its legacy of excellence, Kudadoo also secured the #18 position in Asia’s Small & Boutique Hotels category, recognised for its unparalleled approach to ultra-luxury hospitality, eco-conscious ethos, and personalized all-inclusive experiences that redefine exclusivity.

Akira Shiota, General Manager of Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, emphasised that every detail at Kudadoo is designed with purpose to offer unparalleled freedom, tranquil privacy, and an intimate connection to nature. He stated that receiving the ‘Best of the Best’ award once again validates the resort’s commitment to exceptional, conscious luxury, crediting the dedicated team and loyal guests for inspiring continuous elevation of the experience.

Designed by acclaimed Japanese architect Yuji Yamazaki, Kudadoo is a fully solar-powered sanctuary crafted for effortless luxury and meaningful indulgence. The island is home to just 15 exclusive Ocean Residences, each positioned above the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, offering a personalized escape with 24/7 private butler service.

Guests at Kudadoo can enjoy a wide range of curated experiences, from swimming with manta rays to bespoke beachside barbecues, tailored to meet the desires of discerning visitors—many of whom return year after year for the resort’s signature blend of serenity, sophistication, and sustainability.

Mohamed Solah, CEO of Crown & Champa Resorts, the management company behind Kudadoo, remarked that the award celebrates the essence of what the resort offers: freedom, privacy, and pure indulgence. He noted that being recognised by global travellers year after year is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the passion, dedication, and outstanding service delivered by the resort’s teams daily.

Kudadoo is accessible via a scenic seaplane journey or a domestic flight followed by a speedboat transfer, ensuring a seamless and stress-free transition into paradise.

This milestone adds to Kudadoo’s growing list of accolades, including its status as a 2024 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Winner, which placed the resort among the top 10% of hospitality businesses worldwide. With an unwavering focus on innovation, wellbeing, and elevated service, Kudadoo continues to set the standard for private island living in the Maldives.

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Awards

Kuredu Island Resort earns top honours in 2025 TripAdvisor ‘Best of the Best’ Awards

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4 days ago

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May 29, 2025

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Kuredu Island Resort & Spa has been honoured with the prestigious ‘Best of the Best’ accolade in the 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, ranking it among the top 1% of hotels worldwide. This distinction represents the highest level of excellence awarded by TripAdvisor, celebrating destinations that consistently provide exceptional service, outstanding value, and unforgettable guest experiences.

Selected from millions of traveller reviews and ratings collected over the past year, the Travellers’ Choice ‘Best of the Best’ Award reflects Kuredu’s unwavering dedication to exceeding expectations and crafting joyful, memorable stays. Guests worldwide have praised the resort’s warm Maldivian hospitality, extensive range of activities, diverse dining options, and idyllic island setting that seamlessly balances excitement with tranquility.

Mohamed Solah, CEO of Crown & Champa Resorts, commented that Kuredu’s vibrant charm, variety of adventures, and heartfelt hospitality continue to captivate guests. He emphasised that the award not only recognises the resort’s exceptional service but also the emotional connections the team fosters with every guest. He expressed deep pride and gratitude toward the Kuredu family and loyal visitors for helping achieve this significant milestone.

Situated in the turquoise waters of the Lhaviyani Atoll, Kuredu Island Resort & Spa is one of the Maldives’ most beloved and iconic destinations. As the sole resort on Kuredu Island, it offers an exclusive sanctuary welcoming families, couples, and solo travelers alike. The resort features 389 villas and bungalows, ranging from beachside retreats to overwater hideaways, blending rustic charm with luxurious comfort.

Guests can enjoy a wide variety of experiences catering to all preferences and tempos. Activities include world-renowned diving at nearby coral reefs, water sports, sunset dolphin cruises, yoga sessions, full-service spas, and culinary journeys across multiple restaurants and bars. Kuredu aims to offer more than just a holiday — it provides stories worth sharing.

The resort’s family-friendly amenities, including kid-focused activities and multi-generational villa options, make it a top choice for travellers with children. Couples are attracted to romantic beach dinners, secluded sunset spots, and the peaceful O’ Resort area designed for adults seeking intimacy and calm.

Jorge Amaro, General Manager of Kuredu Island Resort & Spa, highlighted the resort’s deeply personal approach. He explained that it is the small gestures — such as remembering a guest’s favourite drink or sharing a genuine smile — that create lasting memories. He noted that the award reflects the passion, dedication, and authenticity of the entire team, who strive to make every guest feel truly at home on the island.

The 2025 recognition adds to Kuredu’s impressive array of accolades earned over the past decade. The resort has consistently upheld its reputation as one of the Maldives’ most admired hospitality destinations, with multiple TripAdvisor honours including:

  • 2024 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award — Recognised among the top 10% of hospitality businesses worldwide
  • 2019 Certificate of Excellence — Awarded for consistently high guest ratings
  • 2017 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence
  • 2014 Certificate of Excellence, UK — Based on outstanding guest reviews
  • 2013 Travellers’ Choice Award, UK — Ranked #21 among the Top 25 Resorts in the Maldives for Best Service
  • 2013 & 2012 Certificate of Excellence, UK — Recognised for consistent excellence in guest satisfaction

These honours reflect Kuredu’s longstanding commitment not only to meeting international hospitality standards but also to creating a sense of belonging, excitement, and wonder for guests from around the world.

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Awards

Komandoo Island Resort & Spa shines in 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards

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4 days ago

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May 28, 2025

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Komandoo Island Resort & Spa has been recognised as a winner in the 2025 TripAdvisor® Travellers’ Choice® Awards, earning a place among the top 10% of hotels globally. This prestigious accolade reflects the boutique adults-only resort’s enduring charm, thoughtful details, and commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences in an intimate and romantic setting.

As a member of the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame, Komandoo has long maintained a reputation as one of the Maldives’ most beloved resorts for couples and honeymooners. With just 65 villas situated along pristine beaches and above a shimmering turquoise lagoon, the island offers an idyllic retreat where love, serenity, and barefoot luxury thrive.

According to Mohamed Solah, CEO of Crown & Champa Resorts, “This recognition is a testament to the genuine care our Team of Champions puts into every stay. At Komandoo, hospitality is more than a service—it’s a heartfelt connection with each guest.”

Ahmed Naseem, General Manager of Komandoo Island Resort & Spa, added, “What makes Komandoo special is the soul of the island—our champions’ passion, the intimacy of the setting, and the heartfelt experiences created for every guest. Being honoured year after year by our guests and by TripAdvisor inspires us to keep delivering unforgettable moments in one of the most romantic corners of the world.”

Komandoo’s adults-only policy and tranquil environment make it an exceptional choice for honeymoons, anniversaries, and couples’ getaways. Guests enjoy uninterrupted serenity, romantic beach dining, curated experiences, and wellness offerings designed for reconnection and relaxation.

Komandoo’s inclusion in the 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards continues a long-standing tradition of excellence celebrated by TripAdvisor and the global travel community. Among the numerous accolades the resort has received from TripAdvisor over the years are:

  • TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award Winner 2025 & 2024
  • TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence – 2019
  • Travellers’ Choice Awards – UK – 2018
  • Certificate of Excellence – UK – 2016
  • TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards – UK – 2015 – | #1 Romantic Resort in the Maldives | #7 Top Hotel for Service in Maldives | Top 10 Hotels in Maldives
  • Certificate of Excellence – UK – 2015 & 2012
  • Five-time Certificate of Excellence Winner (2011–2015)
  • TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award – 2009 (UK) | #1 Romantic Resort in Maldives | #1 in Asia | #7 in the World

These accolades highlight Komandoo’s unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction and its dedication to delivering memorable, personalised stays.

With its adults-only policy and serene setting, Komandoo offers an unparalleled destination for honeymoons, anniversaries, and romantic escapes. Guests are treated to uninterrupted tranquillity, bespoke beach dining experiences, wellness offerings, and curated activities designed to foster reconnection.

The resort features a variety of accommodations, from overwater villas with direct lagoon access to beach villas shaded by palms, each offering comfort, privacy, and luxury. Additional highlights include award-winning dining, indulgent spa treatments at Duniye Spa, and a vibrant house reef ideal for snorkelling enthusiasts. Komandoo seamlessly blends Maldivian authenticity with modern comforts and heartfelt service. As the island’s only resort, it offers guests a rare sense of exclusivity—where every detail is crafted to let love stories unfold.

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