Russia tops Maldives’ tourist arrivals with 14,638 visitors

Russia remains the Maldives’ largest tourist source market this year, with 14,638 arrivals recorded as of Sunday, according to the latest statistics released by the Ministry of Tourism on Monday.

The Maldives welcomed 79,004 tourists between January 1 and 11, a 13.6 percent increase compared to the 69,553 arrivals recorded during the same period last year.

Russia topped the market rankings, maintaining the lead it held at the start of 2025. During the same period last year, 11,367 Russian tourists visited the Maldives.

Italy ranked second with 10,298 arrivals, followed by the United Kingdom with 5,959 arrivals.

Germany placed fourth with 4,799 arrivals, while China, last year’s top market, ranked fifth with 3,637 arrivals. India followed with 2,566 arrivals.

The government has set a target of 2.4 million tourist arrivals for 2026. Last year’s target was 2.3 million, and the Maldives ended 2025 with 2.25 million arrivals.

Arrivals from India declined early last year amid diplomatic tensions. However, relations have since improved, with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu visiting India twice, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the Maldives to attend Independence Day celebrations. Both governments have since taken steps to stabilise and strengthen ties.