The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) joined forces with Malaysia Airlines to conduct a comprehensive virtual product seminar tailored specifically for the Japanese travel market. This seminar, held via Microsoft Teams on May 29th, 2024, aimed to fortify the Maldives’ presence in this strategically important region. Attended by approximately 100 influential travel professionals from Japan, the webinar effectively communicated the Maldives’ unwavering appeal as a top-rated holiday destination for Japanese tourists by sharing the latest industry updates and insights from industry peers and experts.
The seminar featured presentations from Malaysia Airlines and tourism authorities representing the Maldives, Malaysia, and Thailand. These presentations focused on Malaysia Airlines’ updated flight schedules and offerings, the introduction of a new daily non-stop flight from Kuala Lumpur to the Maldives, along with enticing airfare promotions. Furthermore, the destination presentations delved into the newly introduced flights, emphasizing the seamless travel experience now available between Malaysia and the Maldives.
The Maldives tourism sector is heavily reliant on the Japanese market, which has shown promising signs of recovery following the pandemic. Arrival numbers from Japan have witnessed a substantial year-on-year increase, with 23,041 arrivals recorded in 2023 and a notable 9,333 arrivals in the first four months of 2024.
In order to reignite interest in Maldives vacations among Japanese travelers, Visit Maldives has meticulously crafted a comprehensive strategy. This includes captivating outdoor advertisements strategically displayed in major Japanese cities, targeted social media campaigns in Japanese, and leveraging the influence of Japanese-speaking tourism professionals and visitors. Additionally, our initiatives aim to showcase the Maldives’ status as a premier destination through premium channels. Customized advertising and promotions highlight the diverse array of experiences the Maldives offers, catering to various interests and preferences, from liveaboard diving expeditions to luxurious resorts, guesthouses, and family-friendly holidays.
In line with these initiatives, MMPRC will also participate in Tourism Expo Japan (TEJ) 2024, a prominent travel expo held in Japan. This participation will provide an opportunity to showcase the Maldives’ unparalleled attractions and entice potential travelers in the Japanese market.