China Overtakes Russia and Italy as Maldives Welcomes 441,000 Tourists in 2026, Record-Breaking Growth and Resort Stays Soar

Published on February 26, 2026

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China has overtaken Russia and Italy as the largest source market for tourism to the Maldives, with over 72,000 visitors so far in 2026. This surge in arrivals is driven by the country’s growing appeal as a premier destination for luxury and tropical vacations.

The Maldives has seen remarkable growth in its tourism sector, welcoming a total of 441,000 tourists so far in 2026. This marks a significant rise in the number of visitors compared to the same period last year, showcasing the resilience and continued appeal of this paradise destination.

Rising Tourist Arrivals and Strong Market Performance

The Maldives’ tourism industry has experienced a surge, with a daily average of 8,000 tourist arrivals. This figure exceeds the 7,300 daily arrivals recorded in the same period of 2025, reflecting an overall increase in international interest and visitation. These statistics, published by the Ministry of Tourism, highlight the destination’s ongoing recovery and its ability to draw global visitors.

For context, the Maldives reached a milestone of 444,000 total visitors, which includes both leisure and business travelers. Of these, 1,300 visitors came for business purposes, while 1,000 arrived via cruise ships, underscoring the diversified nature of the country’s appeal. The Maldives is not only known for its idyllic resorts but also serves as a key location for business events and conferences, further strengthening its tourism profile.

February Sees Record-Breaking Arrivals

February 2026 has been a standout month, with the Maldives recording 217,000 tourist arrivals. This represents an increase of 40,000 visitors compared to the previous year, underscoring the growing global interest in the destination. In January 2026, 227,000 tourists visited the Maldives, maintaining a strong pace of visitation at the start of the year.

The Dominance of Resort Stays and Guesthouses

The majority of visitors, over 300,000, chose to stay in the luxurious resorts that the Maldives is famous for. These high-end properties continue to attract tourists seeking an exclusive and tranquil getaway. Alongside the resorts, more than 100,000 tourists opted for guesthouses, which offer a more affordable, yet equally immersive experience of local Maldivian culture and lifestyle.

Additionally, the Maldives’ diverse tourism offerings extend to safari stays, which have also seen an influx of visitors, with over 12,000 tourists choosing this unique form of accommodation. The growing popularity of safari experiences in the Maldives highlights the destination’s appeal to travelers seeking adventure and exploration in the Indian Ocean.

Top Source Markets: China, Russia, and Italy Lead the Way

The Maldives remains a highly sought-after destination, especially among travelers from Asia and Europe. China continues to be the largest source market for tourism, contributing over 72,000 visitors so far this year. The growing number of Chinese tourists demonstrates the Maldives’ appeal as a top tropical vacation spot for families, couples, and luxury travelers.

Russia follows closely behind as the second-largest source market, with Italy rounding out the top three. The Maldives’ ability to attract tourists from these diverse regions speaks to the country’s global appeal and its continued prominence in international travel.

The Road Ahead: Optimistic Growth for 2026

The Maldives is poised to continue its tourism success throughout 2026, with projections indicating further growth in visitor numbers. Last year, the destination welcomed 2.2 million tourists, and this year’s figures suggest that the country is on track to surpass that number, further cementing its position as one of the world’s premier holiday destinations.

As the Maldives continues to attract a diverse range of visitors, from luxury travelers to those seeking unique and affordable local experiences, the tourism sector remains a key driver of the country’s economy. With ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure, improve sustainability, and provide exceptional services, the Maldives is set to maintain its position as a top choice for global travelers.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Maldives Tourism

With its stunning natural beauty, world-class resorts, and diverse tourism offerings, the Maldives has proven itself to be a leader in the global tourism market. The significant growth in tourist arrivals in 2026 highlights the country’s enduring appeal and its ability to adapt to changing market demands. As the year progresses, the Maldives will likely continue to thrive as a sought-after destination, drawing in even more visitors from around the globe.