Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen has highlighted how efforts to diversify the Maldives' tourism industry are enabling more Maldivians to benefit directly from the sector, as he reflected on the industry's achievements over the past half-century.
Speaking on the occasion of the World Travel Awards 2026, Minister Ameen said hosting an event of such significance in the Maldives was an honour and would draw greater attention to the country. He also thanked the World Travel Awards for selecting the Maldives to host the event.
Minister Ameen reflected on the development of tourism in the Maldives since the industry began 54 years ago. He said Maldivian tourism has become a globally recognised success, crediting the determination of the industry's pioneers and everyone who has contributed to the sector in different capacities.
The Minister said ongoing efforts to diversify tourism are now allowing a large number of Maldivians to benefit from the industry. Under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's vision, he said efforts are under way to promote the Maldives, begin travel to more destinations and diversify the tourism sector to create opportunities for people from different segments of society to benefit from tourism.
Looking ahead, Minister Ameen described next year as an important year for the Maldives' tourism industry. With the sector set to reach its 55th anniversary, he said Visit Maldives plans to extensively celebrate the achievements of the tourism industry throughout the year.
The Maldives hosted the World Travel Awards Asia, Oceania and Indian Ocean Gala 2026 this year and secured awards in five categories. Among them, the Maldives received the Indian Ocean's Leading Destination title for the seventh consecutive year.
The World Travel Awards is the most prestigious award presented globally in the tourism industry.