Lead (8 words): 1.28 million tourists have visited Maldives this year.

According to the latest figures from the Tourism Ministry, the total number of tourists who visited the Maldives as of last Monday reached 1,281,360. While this is lower than the 1,341,550 tourists who visited during the same period in 2025, it represents a notable increase compared to the 1,223,865 tourists who visited during the same period in 2024.

The main reason cited for the decline in tourist numbers this year is the ongoing war in the Middle East. At the height of the Iran situation, major airlines that bring the most tourists to the Maldives — such as Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Etihad — completely halted their flights. Although flights later resumed, they operated with many restrictions.

However, the situation has now changed, and the daily arrival numbers to the Maldives are increasing significantly. About a month ago, the daily average was around 4,000 tourists, but that figure has now risen to approximately 6,000.

China has sent the most tourists to the Maldives this year, with 224,107 arrivals, followed by Russia in second place with 183,960 tourists. Other top source markets include the United Kingdom with 99,286, Italy with 81,144, Germany with 78,046, and India with 72,773. It is also notable that arrivals from countries such as the United States, Switzerland, and Australia have held steady rather than declined.

Most tourists arrived through Velana International Airport (VIA), which received 1,250,875 visitors. Gan International Airport in Addu received 4,632, Maafaru Airport received 4,201, and Hanimaadhoo International Airport received 2,722 tourists.