By The Maldives, renowned for its pristine beaches, turquoise lagoons, and luxury resorts, has long been a premier tropical destination. Tourism forms the backbone of its economy, contributing over 28% to GDP and employing a significant portion of the workforce. Over the past five years, from 2020 to 2025, the sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, rebounding from the COVID-19 pandemic to achieve record-breaking visitor numbers and expanded infrastructure. This article delves into key statistics highlighting the increase in tourist arrivals and tourism facilities, drawing on official data to illustrate the industry’s upward trajectory.
Tourist Arrivals: A Dramatic Recovery and Sustained Growth
The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted global travel, and the Maldives was no exception. In 2020, tourist arrivals plummeted to 555,000, a staggering 67.4% decline from 1,703,000 in 2019. This drop was attributed to international border closures and travel restrictions. However, as vaccinations rolled out and confidence returned, the industry staged a strong comeback.
By 2021, arrivals surged to 1,322,000, marking a 138.2% increase over 2020. This rebound continued into 2022 with 1,675,000 visitors, a 26.7% year-on-year growth, fueled by pent-up demand and targeted marketing campaigns. In 2023, the figure rose to 1,879,000, up 12.1% from the previous year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
The momentum persisted in 2024, with arrivals reaching 2,046,615—a 9.1% increase from 2023. This growth was driven by diversified markets, including rising numbers from China, India, and Europe, alongside improved air connectivity. As of August 22, 2025, year-to-date arrivals for 2025 stand at approximately 1,509,000 (based on end-June figures of 1,108,130, July’s 186,738, and partial August data showing slower but positive 4.4% growth). Official projections forecast a record 2.3 million visitors for the full year, underscoring sustained appeal.
Overall, from 2020 to 2024, arrivals increased by approximately 269% cumulatively, transforming a crisis into an opportunity for expansion.
Expansion of Tourism Facilities: Meeting Rising Demand
Parallel to visitor growth, the Maldives has invested heavily in infrastructure. Total registered bed capacity grew from 52,108 at the end of 2020 to 62,367 by the end of 2023, a 19.7% increase. This expansion continued, reaching 61,739 beds in 2024 and 64,033 by June 2025, reflecting a 1.7% growth in facilities mid-year.
Key categories saw notable rises. The number of resorts increased from 156 in 2020 to 180 in 2023 and 182 by July 2024, though slight fluctuations occurred, with 175 reported in July 2025 due to renovations or closures. Guesthouses, appealing to budget travelers, expanded significantly: beds rose from 10,343 in 2020 to 14,785 in 2023, with 867 establishments by 2024. Hotels and safari vessels also grew, with hotels at 14 (3,006 beds) and safaris at 152 (likely around 3,000 beds) in 2024.
This infrastructure boom, including new eco-friendly resorts and community-owned guesthouses, has enhanced accessibility and sustainability. Bed utilization rates recovered from 25.7% in 2020 to 57.6% in 2023, indicating efficient capacity use.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
The past five years have seen Maldives tourism evolve from recovery to record highs, with visitor numbers climbing from a low of 555,000 in 2020 to over 2 million in 2024, and facilities expanding to accommodate demand. This growth not only boosts economic prosperity but also emphasizes sustainable practices to preserve the archipelago’s natural beauty. As 2025 progresses toward 2.3 million arrivals, the Maldives solidifies its status as a global tourism powerhouse.