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MATATO deplores tourism reopening proposals for ‘devaluating Maldives brand’

Published

5 years ago

May 21, 2020

A representative body of local travel agents and tour operators has slammed tourism authorities in Maldives for a “devaluation of the Maldives brand”, after draft guidelines that will impose strict restrictions on tourist facilities and visitors when the country reopens its borders were published for industry feedback.

Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) said Wednesday that the “devaluation” of the country’s tourism brand, which had been established over the course of four decades, will have significant negative effect in the months and years ahead.

Travellers are already painting the Maldives as unwelcoming and inhospitable, it added.

“It is important that we prepare ourselves to open our borders and have a practical approach to re-entering the global tourism market, rather than creating an approach that actively hinders an already ailing tourism industry,” a statement read.

“We believe that we should not depart from our 40 year history of welcoming travellers to the Maldives and we believe that a balance needs to be found to ensure that the largest revenue generating sector of the Maldives, the tourism industry, is not further hindered during our recovery process.”

MATATO also denied comments made by officials and media reports that the draft guidelines were prepared with the feedback and input of industry stakeholders.

Despite being a major tourism representative body, MATATO was not discussed during the drafting stage and only received the draft two days ago — when the tourism ministry published the guidelines for feedback, it said.

“Given the severity of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, it is imperative that all stakeholders are consulted and allowed the opportunity to give diligent feedback, in order to effectively recover from this global crisis,” the statement read.

“We appreciate the initiative now taken by the government to engage in meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders of the tourism industry in order to review the drafted SOP guideline, to facilitate the border’s reopening and the national recovery process.”

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih announced Wednesday that the Maldives will reopen its borders and restart its worst-hit tourism industry in July.

The president’s announcement came a day after his tourism officials invited comments from industry stakeholders on draft guidelines, which — if finalised — will see the introduction of a $100 visa fee and mandatory on-arrival testing for coronavirus (at a cost of $100 per test) for all tourists when the island nation reopens its borders to visitors.

According to the draft guidelines, which have attracted public criticism for being too harsh and impractical, only resorts and liveaboard vessels that have a so-called “safe tourism licence” will be permitted to open at first.

Tourist establishments will have to pay a $50,000 fee and meet certain conditions to get the licence.

Guests can come to these tourist establishments either by private jet or superyacht from June 1, followed by charter and commercial flights a month later.

Charter flights and private jets will be charged a landing fee of $50,000. Superyachts will also have pay an entry fee fo $10,000.

Meanwhile, guesthouses and hotels will only be allowed to open from August.

There are no plans yet to allow cruise ships.

The tourism ministry expects the restrictions to be in effect until September “unless extended by the government”.

The ministry says the guidelines will only be finalised based on industry feedback.

The coronavirus outbreak has hit the Maldivian economy hard, as travel restrictions and other preventive measures affect the country’s lucrative tourism industry, which contributes the bulk of the island nation’s state revenue and foreign reserves.

Before the pandemic, the government had been bullish about tourism prospects, targeting two million, high-spending holidaymakers this year after last year’s record 1.7 million.

However, tourist arrivals saw a year-over-year decline of 22.8 per cent in the first 10 days of March. Officials say the number of tourist arrivals to the Maldives could drop by half in 2020.

All international airlines have suspended scheduled operations to the Maldives, as the island nation enforced a blanket suspension of on-arrival visa in late March in a bid to combat the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Even before the visa suspension, the Maldives had closed its borders to arrivals from some of the worst-hit countries, including mainland China, Italy, Bangladesh, Iran, Spain, the United Kingdom, Malaysia and Sri Lanka. Visitors from three regions of Germany (Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia and Baden-Württemberg), two regions of France (Île-de-France and Grand Est) and two regions of South Korea were also banned from entering the country.

All direct flights to and from China, Italy, South Korea and Iran were also cancelled.

Cruise ships and foreign yachts were also banned from docking at any of the country’s ports.

With arrival numbers falling and the visa suspension in effect, several resorts across the Maldives had been closed.

Tourism has been the bedrock of the Maldives’ economic success. The $5 billion-dollar economy grew by 6.7 per cent in 2018 with tourism generating 60 per cent of foreign income.

However, the government is at present projecting a possible 13 per cent economic contraction this year — an estimated $778 million hit.

On March 8, Maldives reported its first cases of the novel coronavirus, as two hotel employees tested positive for Covid-19 at a luxury resort in the archipelago.

Eighteen more cases — all foreigners working or staying resorts and liveaboard vessels except five Maldivians who had returned from abroad — were later identified.

A six-case cluster of locals, detected in capital Male on April 15, confirmed community transmission of the coronavirus. Several more clusters have since been identified, bringing the total number of confirmed case in the Maldives to 1,186.

Four deaths have been reported and 91 have made full recoveries.

The Maldives announced a state of public health emergency on March 12, the first such declaration under a recent public health protection law.

The public health emergency declaration has allowed the government to introduce a series of unprecedented restrictive and social distancing measures, including stay-at-home orders in capital Male and its suburbs, a ban on inter-island transport and public gatherings across the country, and a nationwide closing of government offices, schools, colleges and universities.

Non-essential services and public places in the capital such as gyms, cinemas and parks have also been shut.

Restaurants and cafes in the capital have been asked to stop dine-in service and switch to takeaway and delivery.

A nationwide shutdown of all guesthouses, city hotels and spa facilities located on inhabited islands is also in effect.

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Freediving with tiger sharks: Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah collaborates with marine biologist Andriana Fragola

Published

4 mins ago

September 9, 2025

Maha Rasheed

Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah, renowned for its world-class scuba diving encounters, has announced an exciting expansion: the chance to freedive with tiger sharks in the Maldives’ southernmost atoll.

Fuvahmulah, often hailed as the “Tiger Shark Capital of the World,” is the only place on the planet where year-round encounters with tiger sharks are virtually guaranteed. With more than 280 identified resident tiger sharks, the island has become a bucket-list destination for divers and marine enthusiasts alike.

The newly introduced freediving experience offers a unique way to interact with these apex predators. Unlike scuba diving, freediving takes place without bubbles or heavy gear, allowing participants to connect with tiger sharks in a quieter, more natural way. This approach often makes the encounter more comfortable for the sharks and more intimate for the diver.

Guiding these expeditions is Andriana “Andy” Fragola, a marine biologist, shark diver, and conservationist currently based in Hawaii. Andy holds a Master’s Degree in Marine Conservation Biology with a focus on shark microbiology and has dedicated her career to shark research, conservation, and public education. Through her work in media and content creation, she strives to raise awareness about the importance of shark conservation and inspire people to take action to protect marine ecosystems.

“Freediving with tiger sharks is a raw and transformative experience,” says Andy. “Being eye-to-eye with these incredible animals without the barrier of scuba gear allows you to see them for what they truly are—powerful, intelligent, and essential to the health of our oceans.”

Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah ensures that all freediving activities are conducted under strict safety protocols. With experienced professionals like Andy leading the dives, participants can expect both an exhilarating and responsible adventure.

Why this experience stands out:

Eye-to-eye encounters with tiger sharks in their natural habitat.
A deeper, more personal connection with marine life.
Expert-led guidance ensuring safety and conservation awareness.

In addition to freediving, Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah offers a range of packages, including accommodation options, making it easier for adventurers to fully immerse themselves in the island’s extraordinary marine environment.

For bookings and more information:
📧 Email: sales@scuba-expeditions.com
📱 WhatsApp: +960 9894653
🌐 www.scuba-expeditions.com

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Coco Bodu Hithi prepares for Christmas and New Year festivities

Published

4 hours ago

September 9, 2025

m@ldives

Coco Bodu Hithi has announced a curated festive programme to take place from 22 December 2025 to 2 January 2026, designed to bring together culinary experiences, entertainment, and island-inspired activities. The celebrations are intended to offer memorable moments for guests whether travelling individually, as couples, with families, or in groups.

The season will commence with the annual Festive Tree Lighting Ceremony on 22 December, featuring carols, mulled wine, and sunset views, followed by festive drinks, yoga, and a Coco Cinema night under the stars. Dining plays a central role in the programme, with a Christmas Eve Gala Dinner at Air Restaurant offering an international menu accompanied by carols, while guests at the Coco Residences may enjoy a more intimate traditional dinner at Stars Restaurant. Additional events include a Fisherman’s Barbeque, a Maldivian Night with local cuisine and Boduberu, and the return of the Art-of-Fire Culinary Journey with Dutch chef Jord Althuizen from 27 to 29 December.

Entertainment throughout the season will feature live music at Latitude Bar, mixology and wine-tasting sessions, yoga experiences, beach games, sunset fishing, and beach parties with DJs. The New Year’s Eve Tropical Fire & Ice Gala Dinner will mark the highlight of the festivities, combining food, music, and celebration to welcome 2026.

Children will be offered dedicated activities such as workshops and treasure hunts, while families can participate in gingerbread decorating and enjoy a visit from Santa Claus on Christmas Day. Couples and solo travellers will also have the opportunity to enjoy private dining, sunset cruises, and intimate experiences.

In line with Coco Collection’s sustainability ethos, the programme will also incorporate marine conservation initiatives, including coral planting, snorkelling excursions, and talks led by the resort’s marine team, encouraging guests to connect with the surrounding environment.

Coco Bodu Hithi, recognised among the Top Resorts in the Indian Ocean at the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2024 and winner of Best Service at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards 2025, is part of the Coco Collection portfolio. The resort features 98 villas, each with a private pool, including 24 Coco Residences and one Grand Premier Beach Villa with Pool. With its focus on bespoke experiences, service, and sustainability, the resort aims to provide guests with opportunities to celebrate and create lasting memories during the festive season.

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Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives named Best Surf Resort for second year running

Published

1 day ago

September 8, 2025

m@ldives

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has been recognised as the Best Surf Resort in the Maldives at the Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) Awards 2025, achieving the accolade for the second consecutive year. The award underscores the resort’s reputation as a leading destination for surf enthusiasts in search of world-class waves and welcoming hospitality.

Located just 40 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, the resort offers direct access to Kandooma Right, a renowned right-hand reef break celebrated for its long rides and playful barrels. Surf operations are exclusively managed by Perfect Wave Travel, ensuring uncrowded line-ups and an emphasis on sustainable surf tourism. The island has cultivated a dedicated surf community, with many guests returning annually, and some multiple times a year, drawn by the consistency of the waves, the warmth of the resort’s service, and expert surf guidance.

Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, commented on the achievement: “Our continued partnership with Perfect Wave and the team’s dedication to creating memorable surf experiences is what makes Kandooma stand out. We welcome surfers of all levels, and our aim is to ensure that every ride is unforgettable. The sense of belonging to the surf community here is what makes the island truly unique.”

In addition to Kandooma Right, surfers have access to nearby breaks such as Tucky Joe’s, Riptides, and Quarters, catering to intermediate surfers, progressive shortboarders, and longboarders alike.

Away from the surf, the resort offers a wide range of leisure experiences including the Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala, snorkelling and diving excursions showcasing the Maldives’ rich marine life, and diverse dining options serving global cuisine. The combination of surf culture, tropical adventure, and authentic hospitality contributes to a distinct island lifestyle.

This back-to-back success at the TTM Awards follows the resort’s 2023 title as Best Dive Resort, further reinforcing its position as one of the Maldives’ leading destinations for marine-based experiences.