AGP Executive Report

Resort honours: Fushifaru Maldives placed fourth among Indian Ocean resorts in Condé Nast Traveller’s Readers’ Choice Awards. Alila Kothaifaru has unveiled its Christmas and New Year programme, blending marine activities, Maldivian traditions and festive dining. Global rankings: Maldives resorts dominated Condé Nast’s Indian Ocean list, with St. Regis Maldives ranked second; Veligandu Island Beach topped the magazine’s world beach ranking. Industry awards: The Maldives collected 36 South Asian Travel Awards, including honours for Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, Ocean Group Maldives and Kandooma Maldives. New connections: Vietjet plans to launch three weekly Ho Chi Minh City–Malé flights via Colombo from December 5, adding a route for Sri Lankan and international travellers. Tourism outlook: September arrivals fell just 414 short of a record, while the government has held talks with industry leaders over tax and foreign-exchange pressures. A proposed 17% tax on foreign travel firms is reportedly set to be delayed.

Tourism Awards: Maldivian tourism claimed 36 honours at the South Asian Travel Awards. The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli ranked No. 2 among Indian Ocean resorts in Condé Nast Traveler’s US readers’ poll, while Kandooma Maldives won Leading Family Resort and Ocean Group Maldives was named Leading Dive Centre/Brand. Sun Travels also took the inbound agency award. New Air Link: Vietjet plans to launch three weekly Ho Chi Minh City–Malé flights via Colombo from December 5, adding a new option for travellers from Sri Lanka and Vietnam. Hospitality Careers: The Cocoon Collection’s October roadshow will visit five communities before Malé, aiming to recruit 35 young Maldivians for its hospitality Starter Programme. Resort Energy: At the GM Forum, industry speakers discussed lagoon solar and financing options to help resorts reduce diesel use while protecting island views. Rasmale’ Jobs: Eagle Hills chairman Mohamed Alabbar says the proposed waterfront project could create 15,000–18,000 permanent jobs across hotels, restaurants and other businesses.

Resort Recognition: The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli ranked No. 2 among Indian Ocean resorts in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards, adding to a strong week for Maldivian properties. SATA Awards: Maldives took 36 South Asian Travel Awards, with Ocean Group named Leading Dive Centre, Sun Travels best inbound agency, Kandooma the leading family resort and The Hawks Hotels the leading boutique hotel. Travel Links: Vietjet plans three weekly Ho Chi Minh City–Maldives flights via Colombo from 5 December, opening another route for regional visitors. Hajj Corporation also plans direct Gan–Jeddah flights for Umrah pilgrims during Ramadan. Tourism Workforce: The Cocoon Collection will visit five atolls and Malé to recruit 35 young people for its hospitality Starter Programme. Industry and Investment: Tourism leaders are seeking wider consultation on tax and foreign-exchange pressures, while Eagle Hills says its proposed Rasmale’ development could create 15,000–18,000 permanent jobs.

Air Access: Vietjet will launch three weekly Ho Chi Minh City–Malé flights via Colombo from 5 December, adding a new option for Sri Lankan travellers and multi-country trips. Tourism Awards: The Maldives won 36 South Asian Travel Awards, including Leading Adventure Destination; Kandooma Maldives was named Leading Family Resort, while Maldivian and Trans Maldivian Airways took transport honours. Resort Leadership: Baros Maldives appointed Christian Szabo as General Manager; he previously led sister property Niva Dhigali. Local Talent: The Tourism and Youth ministries signed an agreement to create tourism apprenticeships, aiming to expand young Maldivians’ training and employment opportunities. Foreign Currency: Bank of Maldives supplied customers with USD 722 million in foreign currency in the first nine months, including USD 86 million for travel, as demand for overseas payments grows. Trade Links: Sri Lankan exporters secured USD 50,000 in deals at Hotel Asia 2026, with a further USD 150,000 in opportunities under discussion.

Tourism Awards: The Maldives won 36 South Asian Travel Awards, including Leading Adventure Destination, while Kandooma Maldives took Leading Family Resort and Sun Travels was named a leading inbound travel agent. People and Skills: Tourism and youth ministries signed an apprenticeship agreement to create hands-on training and career pathways for young Maldivians. New Connections: Vietjet is promoting fares ahead of its planned Ho Chi Minh City–Maldives service via Colombo, widening access from Southeast Asia. Guest Experiences: Sun Siyam Iru Veli is highlighting marine excursions across four atolls, while Angsana Velavaru has announced 50% off selected stays for its anniversary sale, available 15–18 October. Industry Outlook: Bank of Maldives expects foreign-currency inflows to strengthen as peak tourism season approaches, after September’s seasonal dip. Diving Safety: An Italian expert report found five divers who died at Alimatha Cave ran out of oxygen; investigators are still examining why they could not surface.

Global Recognition: Veligandu Island Beach topped Condé Nast Traveller’s 2026 list of the world’s best beaches, putting the Maldives ahead of destinations including Anguilla and Thailand. The country also took 36 South Asian Travel Awards, including Leading Adventure Destination; Sun Travels won silver for inbound travel agency. Tourism Careers: The Tourism and Youth ministries signed an agreement to create apprenticeships, aiming to give young Maldivians practical training and more routes into the industry. Visitor Promotion: A special Maldives episode of MasterChef Sri Lanka features contestants hosted at SAii Lagoon and Hard Rock Hotel, with support from Visit Maldives and Legend Maldives. Air Access: Vietjet is promoting fares ahead of its planned Ho Chi Minh City–Maldives service via Colombo. Peak-Season Outlook: Bank of Maldives expects foreign-currency inflows to strengthen as tourism enters its busy season, after September receipts fell 27% below the year-to-date monthly average.

Tourism Investment: Eagle Hills chairman Mohamed Alabbar says Maldivian businesses and investors will be able to participate in the Rasmalé waterfront and marina project, which he says could create jobs and new tourism opportunities. Resort Recognition: The Maldives claimed 20 of 25 places in Condé Nast Traveller’s Indian Ocean resort ranking, with JOALI Maldives in first place; JA Manafaru also entered the 2026 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection. Air Travel: Maldivian has launched Journey+, offering paid options including priority check-in, extra baggage and lounge access. VietJet plans three weekly Ho Chi Minh City–Malé flights from December 5, opening a direct link with Vietnam. Visitor Demand: September arrivals reached 150,764, just 414 short of the monthly record. Marine Conservation: Dhiraagu and Soneva Conservation are backing community-led coral restoration in Dharavandhoo, including training local residents and establishing a coral nursery. Destination Promotion: MasterChef Sri Lanka’s top five contestants are filming a special Maldives episode, with support from Visit Maldives and stays at SAii Lagoon and Hard Rock Hotel Maldives.

Resort Recognition: Maldivian resorts claimed 20 of 25 places in Condé Nast Traveller’s Indian Ocean rankings, with JOALI Maldives taking first place. Air Access: Maldivian launched Journey+, offering add-ons including priority check-in, extra baggage and lounge access; VietJet plans three weekly Ho Chi Minh City–Malé flights from December 5. Bangladesh Ties: A tuna gala in Dhaka promoted Maldivian tourism and sustainable fisheries, with officials calling for closer cooperation. Guesthouse Investment: SME Digital introduced dollar-repayable financing of up to MVR 10 million to support guesthouse development and upgrades. Tax and Revenue: TGST receipts were down 1.4% year-on-year, while UK travel groups await official confirmation of a reported delay to the 17% tax on overseas travel firms until April 2027. Reef Conservation: Dhiraagu and Soneva CSM will train Dharavandhoo residents in coral restoration and establish a community nursery.

Tourism Taxes: TGST revenue was down 1.4% year on year by October 1, as resort leaders pressed for clarity on tax and foreign-exchange rules. UK travel bodies cautiously welcomed reports that the 17% tax on overseas travel firms may be delayed until April 2027, but say they are awaiting official confirmation. New Connections: VietJet plans three weekly Ho Chi Minh City–Malé flights from December 5, while a new Dubai–Malé private-jet route targets luxury travellers ahead of peak season. Island Investment: SME Digital launched USD-repayable financing of up to MVR 10 million for guesthouse development and upgrades. Dhiraagu and Soneva Conservation will train Dharavandhoo residents in coral restoration and establish a community nursery. Tourism Demand: The Maldives recorded 150,764 arrivals in September, just 414 short of the monthly record. Resort Spotlight: .Here Baa Atoll ranked sixth and Milaidhoo 10th among Indian Ocean resorts in Condé Nast Traveller’s 2026 readers’ awards.

Tourism Policy & FX: Senior government officials met tourism leaders over tax and foreign exchange concerns, including a new rule requiring resorts to convert 40% of foreign currency revenue via domestic banks, as the industry pushes for workable steps to hit 2027 arrival targets. Industry Dialogue: Hotelier Maldives GM Forum 2026 urged wider, open consultation and better data use in policymaking, with leaders calling for productive government-industry dialogue. Connectivity for Tourism: Dhiraagu CEO said tourism and telecom development are tightly linked, stressing technology access as Maldives competes globally. Awards & Brand Buzz: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands earned Two MICHELIN Keys; The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort marks its 10th anniversary with a 10-day celebration. Resort Updates: The Standard, Maldives launched a limited-time offer for upgraded pool villas; Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu announced “Roots & Tides” heritage festivities; Ifuru Island unveiled “Echoes of the Ocean and Stars” for Christmas and New Year. Travel Operations: Maldivian launched Journey+ optional services for more flexible passenger choices. Training & Careers: Atmosphere Foundation graduated its second “Zero to Divemaster” cohort, bringing 20 young Maldivians into professional diving pathways.

Tourism Policy: Maldives government met tourism leaders over tax and foreign exchange rules, including a new requirement for resorts to convert 40% of foreign currency revenue via domestic banks, as officials pushed for 2027 arrival targets. TGST Update: The Maldives appears to have delayed the controversial 17% Tourism Goods and Services Tax for foreign travel firms until April 1, 2027, after UK trade lobbying—ABTA now seeks formal confirmation. Resort Accolades: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands earned Two MICHELIN Keys, while The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort announced a 10-day 10th anniversary celebration (Nov 10–20). On-Island Experiences: Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu unveiled “Roots & Tides” (Dec 22–Jan 7) celebrating Maldivian heritage, and Ifuru Island will run “Echoes of the Ocean and Stars” (Dec 21–Jan 10). Industry Moves: S Hotels & Resorts expanded Alexander Traeger’s Maldives leadership remit across CROSSROADS Maldives, and HPL will take over Holiday Inn Kandooma Resort management from Oct 1, rebranding it as Kandooma Maldives. Travel Trade Spotlight: Sun Siyam Media signed as official media partner for the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) in Malé this week.

Tourism Policy: Maldives government discussions with tourism industry experts focused on boosting tourist arrivals and agreeing key milestones for the year ahead, with ministers including Finance Minister Hassan Zareer and Tourism Minister Mohamed Ameen. TGST Update: After lobbying from the UK travel trade, the Maldives has reportedly delayed the 17% Tourism Goods and Services Tax for foreign travel agencies and offshore booking platforms until April 1, 2027; MATATO welcomed the government’s move to revise the destination-principle framework. Airline & Travel Services: Maldivian launched “Journey+” optional services for more passenger choice (priority handling, lounge access, upgrades, extra baggage, and pre-ordered snacks). Resort Openings & Upgrades: Nilaa Coral Island Maldives opens Nov 1 as a seven-villa intimate retreat in Gaafu Dhaalu; Kandooma Maldives relaunches with an expanded family all-inclusive concept; Amilla Maldives rolls out autumn 2026 wellness residencies. Industry & Events: SS Media signed as official media partner for SATA 2026 in Malé, while HPL Hotels & Resorts takes over Holiday Inn Kandooma’s management from Oct 1. Marine & Sustainability: Applications open for the 4th Marine Hatchery Skills Development Program, and Bandos marks a guest’s 50th visit with a dedicated coral garden.

Tourism Numbers: Maldives tourism is still chasing momentum after September arrivals fell just 414 short of the prior record, with 158,557 visitors reported and Indian arrivals up 10% MoM to 51,931. TGST Update: The Maldives appears to have delayed the controversial 17% Tourism Goods and Services Tax for foreign travel firms—implementation for foreign travel agents and offshore booking platforms pushed to April 1, 2027—after industry lobbying. Ras Malé Governance Clash: Parliament’s MDP moved an emergency motion demanding full disclosure of the Eagle Hills “Rasmale’” deal details, while the AG said new real estate law is not being drafted specifically for the project. Resort & Airline Moves: HPL will take over Holiday Inn Kandooma Resort Maldives from 1 Oct, relaunching it as Kandooma Maldives with an expanded all-inclusive concept; Maldivian launched “Maldivian Journey+” optional services; and Ifuru Island unveiled its “Echoes of the Ocean and Stars” festive programme (21 Dec–10 Jan). Sustainability & Skills: Atoll Solar and Ocean Sun will present lagoon floating solar at Hotelier Maldives GM Forum 2026; and applications opened for the 4th Marine Hatchery Skills Development Program (14-day course on Maniyafushi).

Tourism Numbers: Maldives recorded 150,764 tourist arrivals in September, down 0.2% year-on-year, with resorts hosting the bulk of visitors and China remaining the top source market. TGST Reform: MATATO welcomed President Muizzu’s decision to revise the TGST destination-principle framework after industry concerns, aiming to protect state revenue while keeping Maldives “easy to sell.” Energy & Resilience: Atoll Solar and Ocean Sun will present lagoon floating solar solutions at Hotelier Maldives GM Forum 2026, while another industry piece argues resorts must treat solar, batteries, generators and microgrid control as one integrated system. New Openings & Relaunches: Nilaa Coral Island Maldives opens Nov 1 as an intimate seven-villa retreat; Kandooma Maldives relaunches with a family-focused all-inclusive concept; Grand Park Kodhipparu rolls out “Celebrate More, Feel More” for Oct–Dec 2026. Marine Skills & Jobs: Applications opened for the fourth Marine Hatchery Skills Development Program (Oct 31–Nov 12) training 15 participants in mariculture and hatchery production. Awards & Experiences: RAAYA by Atmosphere won Best Family Resort in the Maldives at Travel Time Awards; Sun Siyam expands Halloween across multiple islands; Bandos marks a loyal guest’s 50th visit with a dedicated coral restoration garden.

Maritime Skills & Jobs: Applications are open for the Maldives Marine Research Institute’s fourth Marine Hatchery Skills Development Program (14 days, 15 spots) at K. Maniyafushi from Oct 31–Nov 12, covering grouper, sea cucumbers, clownfish, pearl-oyster, seaweed, disease prevention and environmental protection. Private-Island Hospitality: Nilaa Coral Island Maldives (Gaafu Dhaalu) will open Nov 1 with just seven villas for about 40 guests, focusing on “home-like” living and direct access to the house reef plus a marine centre for diving and watersports. TGST Reform Watch: MATATO welcomed President Muizzu’s decision to revise the destination-principle TGST framework for foreign travel agents, after industry concerns over deadlines and procedures—aiming to keep Maldives competitive while protecting state revenue. Family-First Rebrand: Kandooma Maldives has relaunched after 17 years as an expanded all-inclusive, experience-led family resort with new Family Beach Pool Villas and added activities for longer-stay guests. Resort & Culture Updates: Cora Cora Maldives promoted Muizz Mohamed to General Manager; Finolhu hosts Château Palmer for an exclusive wine dinner (Oct 25); Sun Siyam rolls out Halloween across multiple islands. Tourism Numbers: September arrivals reached 150,764 (down 0.2% year-on-year), with China still the top source market. Energy & Resilience: Atoll Solar and Ocean Sun will present lagoon floating solar options at Hotelier Maldives GM Forum 2026, as resorts push beyond diesel reliability toward integrated resilience.

TGST Reform Signals: Tourism Minister Mohamed Ameen says President Muizzu will introduce urgent changes to the Tourism Goods and Services Tax Act, responding to industry calls to adjust the destination-principle model and ease concerns over deadlines and procedures for foreign travel agents. Judicial & Investment Safety: Former President Abdulla Yameen urges mercantile/business courts to protect local business and foreign investment, arguing disputes could be resolved in about 20 days with judges insulated from influence. Tourism Numbers: Maldives recorded 150,764 tourist arrivals in September, down 0.2% year-on-year, with resorts still the top stay choice and China leading source markets. Energy for Resorts: At Hotelier Maldives GM Forum 2026, Atoll Solar and Ocean Sun will present lagoon floating solar options, while separate coverage highlights the shift from “reliability-only” power planning to full energy resilience for island microgrids. Brand & Guest Experience: Kandooma Maldives officially rebrands and expands all-inclusive, experience-led family offerings, while RAAYA by Atmosphere wins “Best Family Resort” at the Travel Time Awards. Environment Financing: Maldives signs UNDP agreements to build a biodiversity financing plan and update national biodiversity strategy and reporting. Media Push: Maldives will feature in a special MasterChef Sri Lanka destination episode, spotlighting cuisine, culture and hospitality. Security Incident: Two Maldivians are detained in the UAE over an attempted Flydubai crash incident.