The Maldives attracted strong interest from international tourism industry representatives at this year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM), where the country showcased its resorts, marine environment and cultural experiences.
The Maldives presented a 517-square-metre exhibition stand designed around the country’s distinctive island and marine environment. The stand featured three-dimensional imagery and large screens highlighting the Maldives’ natural scenery, while visitors were also offered opportunities to experience elements of Maldivian culture and sample local refreshments.
The country’s tourism industry used the four-day event to build new business relationships and strengthen existing partnerships, with resorts, airlines and other tourism-related companies participating in meetings with international industry representatives.
A total of 165 representatives from 74 Maldivian companies attended this year’s ATM. Some participating companies have been taking part in the event for nearly two decades.
Industry representatives described the event as an important platform for promoting the Maldives, particularly within Middle Eastern markets. One resort industry operator told PSM News that ATM remains one of the most beneficial international tourism fairs for the company outside the Maldives’ own TTM event.
The operator also said the timing of the fair ahead of the tourism high season makes it particularly valuable, adding that this year’s event delivered better-than-expected results despite the situation in the Middle East.
The event also saw tourism stakeholders hold numerous business meetings and sign agreements with two airlines, as participants sought to expand cooperation and develop new commercial opportunities.
Now in its 32nd year, ATM brings together tourism companies, destinations, airlines and other industry stakeholders from across international markets. The Maldives has participated in the event for many years as part of its efforts to strengthen its presence in key tourism markets.
The Maldivian government expects the partnerships and business engagements established during this year’s ATM to contribute to the country’s upcoming tourism high season.
