The Maldives, with its captivating turquoise waters and lush landscapes, is setting its sights on attracting more visitors from Bangladesh. As the principal partner country of the Asian Tourism Fair (ATF) Dhaka, taking place from September 19th to 21st, 2024, the Maldives is showcasing its unparalleled beauty and diverse tourism offerings to the Bangladeshi market.
The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), in collaboration with the National Hotel and Guest House Association (NHGAM) and the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO), has assembled a delegation of 37 representatives from 23 tourism industry partners. Their mission is to promote leisure and affordable luxury travel to Asian nations, with a particular focus on the rapidly growing Bangladeshi market.
ATF Dhaka serves as a crucial platform for the tourism industry, bringing together the private sector, organizations, and development agencies from across Asia. The event facilitates networking, collaborations, and connections between individuals, destinations, and countries. Beyond the core B2B and B2C exhibitions, ATF Dhaka offers a plethora of sideline activities, including showcases of sustainable tourism initiatives, insightful seminars and workshops, and vibrant cultural exchanges. This year’s ATF 2024 coincides with World Tourism Day, making the event even more significant and impactful.
The Maldives’ exhibit at ATF 2024 is a captivating showcase of the destination’s alluring beauty and distinctive offerings. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant underwater world, explore stunning natural landscapes, and experience the array of activities that have earned the Maldives its title as the “World’s Leading Destination.” Attendees can enjoy authentic local cuisine while exploring the diverse tourism options, with a special emphasis on affordable luxury and family-friendly travel experiences.
Zihuny Rasheed, Deputy Managing Director of MMPRC/Visit Maldives, delivered an insightful speech at the inauguration of ATF 2024, highlighting the unique offerings of the Maldives and the importance of the Bangladesh market. He stated, “As a leading tourism destination, Visit Maldives is committed to promoting itself as a premier travel destination. Together with NHGAM and MATATO, we are working tirelessly to create innovative marketing campaigns and strategic partnerships that showcase the beauty, diversity, and sustainability of our islands.”
The MMPRC team also provided a valuable presentation about the Maldives’ offerings to the Bangladeshi travel trade. Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO & MD of MMPRC, emphasized the significance of ATF Dhaka in expanding the Maldives’ reach in the Asian tourism market, stating, “ATF Dhaka offers an exceptional opportunity for us to engage with the Asian tourism bodies and promote the unique offerings of the Maldives. We are committed to expanding our reach in this promising market, showcasing the Maldives as a top-notch destination for travelers seeking unparalleled beauty and world-class hospitality.”
The Maldives’ debut participation in the ATF reflects a strong commitment to expanding its footprint in key Asian markets, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, and the rapidly growing Bangladeshi market. By July 30, 2024, the Maldives had recorded 18,843 tourist arrivals from Bangladesh, ranking the country 14th globally for total arrivals, with a market share of 1.6%. This year, the influx of Bangladeshi visitors increased by over 38%, highlighting the market’s resilience and potential for even greater expansion in Maldives tourism.
Visit Maldives, in collaboration with NHGAM and MATATO, continues to promote the country as a top-tier travel destination through innovative marketing efforts and strategic alliances. By focusing on sustainability, unique experiences, and unmatched offerings, Visit Maldives is determined to position the country as the ideal getaway for travelers seeking unforgettable vacations—be it for relaxation, adventure, wellness, or romance.
