Issue 03 | December 2023

MATATO
A Monthly Publication by Maldives Association of
Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO)

N E W S
MATATO hosts Destination
Workshop
Read more on Page 7
____________________________

Drafting Legislation for

the Empowerment of
Local Travel Agents
Read more on Page 8
____________________________

MATATO Launches Aviation

Committee
Read more on Page 9

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MATATO News
 CONTENTS
MATATO DASHBOARD 3

Upcoming properties 4

Upcoming MMPRC Fairs 5

ECONOMIC UPDATE 6

MATATO hosts Destination Workshop 7

Drafting Legislation for the Empowerment of Local Travel

Agents 8

MATATO Launches Aviation Committee 9

MATATO ACTIVITIES 2023 10

MATATO Travel Forecast 2024 11

MALDIVES wins WORLD’S LEADING DESTINATION OF 2023 12

‘PASSING OFF’ AND UNAUTHORISED USE OF OUR NAME AND LOGO 12

MATATO NEWS
Monthly News by MATATO

Cover Photo: istockphoto

CONTRIBUTIONS

MATATO MANAGEMENT TEAM

Abdulla Ghiyas Fathimath Shaha
Mohamed Shaz Waleed Ibrahim Didi
Mohamed Khaleel Ibrahim Nizam
Abdulla Suood Ignaz Mansoor
Mohamed Bassam Adam Hathim Hassan

ADVERTISING & EDITORIAL

For advertising & editorial queries please email to
admin@matato.org

CONTACT
Email : admin@matato.org
Phone :+960 3000 929
Mob# :+960 739 0050

© MATATO NEWS
All rights reserved.
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MATATO News
 MATATO dashboard
2022 International Tourism Arrivals (million) - 969
2022 Maldives Tourism Arrivals - 1,675,303
International arrivals regional shares (%) 2022

Maldives Tourist Arrivals Monthly 2023 vs 22 vs 21

Maldives Top 10 Markets 2023

Government Revenues Tourism Related (MVR)

Nov-23 Jan - Nov 2023 62,778 total Operational beds in
Departure Tax 72,930,229 893,060,351
Green Tax 84,351,237 917,053,168
Maldives as at 01st December 2023
Tourism GST 772,231,434 7,953,801,555
Airport Development Fee 74,334,654 919,218,404 Percentage of Beds per Industry
Tourism Land Rent 31,967,243 1,384,485,049 Resorts 68%
Hotels 3%
Total Revenue (related) 1,035,860,028 12,067,618,527 Guesthouses 24%
Safari Vessels 4%

Govt Dollar income per tourist 466 USD 55% of Maldives beds filled so
(Estimate based on Year To Date 2023 USD Revenue)
far with the given capacity for
Occupancy rate (%) - November
2023
Resorts Guest Hotels Safari
Houses Vessels

66.2 % 43.3 % 35.9 % 22.5 %

Sources:
UNWTO
Ministry of Tourism – Maldives Bed capacity utilization
Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) (YTD 2023) 3
Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA)
MATATO News
 Upcoming properties
Property Region Opening

Infinite Maldives by Cocoon Malé Atoll 2025

Ozen Privé Athiri Gili Malé Atoll 2024

Meyyafushi Lhaviyani Atoll 2024

Avalon Maldives Dhaalu Atoll 2024

Villa Haven South Ari Atoll 2024

Nammos Maldives Malé Atoll 2025

Joali Lagoon Malé Atoll 2025

JW Marriott Emboodhoo Finolhu Malé Atoll 2025

Feydhoo Finolhu Malé Atoll 2024

Capella Maldives Malé Atoll 2025

Centara Lagoon Malé Atoll 2025

Centara Grand Muthaafushi Baa Atoll 2024

Al Mahra Laamu Atoll 2025

Corinthia Maldives Malé Atoll 2025

Project Delfin Malé Atoll 2025

Soneva Secret Haa Dhaalu Atoll 2024

Mandarin Oriental Bolidhuffaru Reef Malé Atoll 2025

Rosewood Ranfaru Maldives Malé Atoll 2025

Bulgari Resort Ranfushi Raa Atoll 2025

Source: Hotelier Maldives

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MATATO News
 Upcoming MMPRC Fairs
2023

2024 Fair List yet to be Announced.

Source: MMPRC/ Visit Maldives

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MATATO News
 ECONOMIC UPDATE

Source: Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA)

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MATATO News
 MATATO hosts Destination Workshop

In a triumphant celebration of collaboration and innovation, the Maldives Association for Travel Agents and
Tour Operators (MATATO) recently orchestrated a highly successful Destination Workshop at Champa
Central Hotel in Malé. This gathering brought together key industry players, including local travel agents,
representatives from resorts, guest houses, hotels, and government officials, aiming to foster collaborative
idea generation and address the prevalent challenges within the tourism industry.

The workshop began with a warm welcome from MATATO's President, highlighting the significance of
collective action in navigating the challenges and opportunities ahead. The urgency to tap into the collective
wisdom of industry experts was underscored, setting the tone for an event focused on unity and shared
expertise.

Minister of Tourism, Honorable Ibrahim Faisal, actively engaged in discussions, expressing gratitude for the
enthusiastic involvement of industry leaders. He emphasized the crucial role played by such collaborative
initiatives in steering the tourism sector towards sustainable growth.

Participants were organized into groups, tasked with brainstorming solutions to specific challenges. These
sessions buzzed with energy as participants shared experiences, generating innovative ideas to surmount
industry hurdles.

Following a productive brainstorming session, each group presented key findings and suggestions,
showcasing a rich tapestry of perspectives and emphasizing the potential for collaboration between different
industry segments.

MATATO will compile a comprehensive report summarizing workshop outcomes, serving as a valuable
resource for the industry with actionable insights for future strategies. The Destination Workshop stands as
a resounding success, fostering collaboration and generating insights to address the challenges and
opportunities in the Maldivian tourism industry. It exemplified the power of collective action and
highlighted the importance of uniting industry stakeholders for a brighter, more sustainable future for
tourism in the Maldives.

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MATATO News
 Drafting Legislation for the Empowerment of Local Travel Agents

Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has been working with Ministry of
Tourism to propose a bill to the Maldivian Parliament, aiming to safeguard the interests of local travel
agents. The association's proactive approach includes extensive consultations with various stakeholders,
ministries, members, and parliamentary representatives.

MATATO's engagement with stakeholders, including its members, government ministries, and key
industry players, has been instrumental in shaping the proposed legislation. Through workshops, surveys,
and feedback sessions, the association has directly addressed the concerns of local travel agents, ensuring
that the bill reflects their collective needs.

Collaboration with ministries, particularly the Ministry of Tourism, has strengthened the proposed bill's
alignment with broader tourism sector goals. This collaborative effort aims to foster sustainable growth
and resilience within the industry.

This bill will be advocating for the rights and interests of local travel agents. The association's strategic
communication has garnered support from members of Parliament, highlighting the importance of a legal
framework that protects local businesses while promoting an environment conducive to growth.

The progress achieved by MATATO signifies a positive step towards the protection and prosperity of local
travel agents in the Maldives. Through persistent efforts and collaboration, the association is actively
shaping a legal framework that ensures the long-term resilience and success of local travel agencies in the
Maldivian tourism landscape.

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MATATO News
 MATATO Launches Aviation Committee

Maldives Association of Travel Agents, and

Tour Operators (MATATO) proudly
announces the establishment of its Aviation
Committee. This initiative follows
MATATO’s call for applications earlier this
year, inviting individuals with a keen
interest in aviation to contribute their
expertise to the committee.

The core objective of the MATATO Aviation Committee is to spearhead the development and enrichment
of the aviation sector, with a specific emphasis on local agencies. The committee will focus on crucial
aspects such as supervisory ground handling and airline ticketing, collaborating closely with all relevant
stakeholders and government authorities to empower local agencies and elevate industry standards.

Underpinning MATATO’S commitment to unity, empowerment, and cooperation, the Aviation

Committee will play a pivotal role in propelling the travel and aviation industry of the Maldives forward.
Recognizing the significance of lobbying and advocacy, the committee will actively engage in these
activities to champion the interests of local agencies and ensure a thriving business environment.

Key priorities for the MATATO Aviation Committee include:

• -Supervision Industry Protection: The committee is dedicated to safeguarding the interests of the
supervision industry, advocating for a robust regulatory framework that benefits local agencies.
• -Competitive Rates for Local Agents: Through strategic lobbying efforts, the committee aims to
secure competitive rates for local agents, fostering a fair and conducive business environment.
• -Education and Exposure Opportunities: The committee will explore opportunities to expose
students to the dynamic aviation industry, promoting educational initiatives to cultivate future
talent.
• -Inclusive Decision–Making: Local agents will be actively involved in discussion processes,
ensuring an inclusive approach to decision-making within the aviation sector.

The MATATO Aviation Committee is honoured to announce the participation of industry experts Ahmed
Arshad from Avia Maldives and Mohamed Mauroof from Get into Maldives Travels. Both experts, selected
from outside the current board, will bring valuable perspectives to the committee. Ahmed Arshad will
serve as the head of the committee, providing leadership and guidance.

MATATO is confident that the establishment of the Aviation Committee will serve as a catalyst for positive
transformation within the Maldives’ aviation landscape. By fostering collaboration, embracing
innovation, and advocating for the interests of local agencies, MATATO continues to lead the way in
advancing the travel and aviation industry.

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MATATO News
MATATO ACTIVITIES 2023
December
• MATATO hosts Destination Workshop for stakeholders
November
• MATATO establishes Aviation Committee
• MATATO Board meets Advisor to the President on Tourism Development
• MATATO board meets with IMF Team in the Maldives about tax reforms
October
• MATATO joined PATA Travel Market 2023 – New Delhi, India
• MATATO Holds Local Travel Agents Discussion Forum
• MATATO Takes Part in Panel Discussion at GM Forum 2023
• MATATO Engages with Local TV Stations to Address Challenges
September
• MATATO Boards meets 2023 Presidential candidates
• MATATO Releases Report on Tourism and Finance
July
• MATATO joins in welcoming the One Millionth Tourist to Maldives
• Launches Maldives Travel Awards 2023 nominations.
June
• Association begins Survey data collection on Maldives Tourism and Finance Sector
• MATATO joined PATA Destination Experience Forum – Kuching, Malaysia
• MMPRC MD Mr Thoyyib Mohamed was a Speaker at PATA Destination Experience Forum –
Kuching, Malaysia
• MATATO VP Mohamed Shaaz Waleed on Raajje_TV – ‘5 Kaafu Program’ discussing updates on
Maldives Tourism
• MATATO promoted Himalayan Travel Mart 2023 Nepal
May
• MATATO joined PATA Annual Summit & Adventure Mart 2023 – Pokhara, Nepal
• Maldives Minister of Tourism Dr Abdulla Mausoom Speaker at PATA Annual Summit &
Adventure Mart 2023 – Pokhara, Nepal
• MATATO participated Visit Maldives Storytellers' Conference 2023 held at Crossroads Maldives
• MATATO partners with Korean Tourism Organisation for roadshow in Male’
April
• MATATO Ifthar 2023 (Sponsored by Resort Life)
• Opened Request for Proposal (RFP) - Maldives Travel Awards 2023 and Maldives Travel
Conference 2023
• MATATO and Visit Maldives participate in Travel Agents Forum 2023 in Las Vegas in April 2023
March
• MATATO holds Board meeting
February
• MATATO forms sub committees for Aviation and Foreign Relations
• MATATO appoints a new Secretary General – Abdulla Suood
January
• MATATO holds first Board meeting for year
• Association lobbies against the increase in TGST increase
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MATATO News
 MATATO Travel Forecast 2024
250,000
200,000 191,259 197,264 192,384 182,231 176,448 188,488
161,456 171,695
150,000 145,210
134,114 133,453 133,757
100,000
50,000
0

Renowned for its exquisite beaches, crystal-clear waters, and opulent resorts, the Maldives stands as a sought-after
tourist haven crucial to its economic fabric. According to MATATO's analysis of prevailing trends, our forecast
indicates that the Maldives is poised to welcome 2.01 million tourists in 2024, reflecting a noteworthy 7.9% surge
compared to the anticipated arrivals in 2023.

Key Contributors to the Projections:

Several factors are anticipated to contribute to the burgeoning growth of the Maldives' tourism sector in 2024. These
factors encompass:

1. Resurgence of the Chinese Market: The resurgence of the Chinese market is anticipated to play a pivotal role
in driving increased tourism.

2. Opening of New Tourist Establishments: The introduction of new tourist establishments is expected to
diversify offerings and attract a broader range of visitors.

3. Completion of the Velana International Airport (VIA) Terminal: The completion of the new terminal at the
primary Velana International Airport will augment airport capacity, facilitating a larger influx of tourists.

4. Sustained Demand for Luxury Travel: The persistent demand for luxury travel experiences is likely to
contribute significantly to the overall tourism growth.

5. Rising Popularity for Destination Weddings and Honeymoons: The Maldives' increasing popularity as a
destination for weddings and honeymoons is poised to be a driving force in attracting tourists.

Regional Breakdown of the Forecast:

Asia: 1.2 million arrivals (60%) - Europe: 400,000 arrivals (20%) - America: 200,000 arrivals (10%) - Others: 210,000
arrivals (10%)

Methodology:

Our forecast draws on data from the past three years, the Airports Council International (ACI) 2024 forecast, the
November forecast from the Finance Ministry of the Maldives, Booking.com Travel Predictions 2024, PwC's latest
UK consumer sentiment survey, and an AI forecaster.

While the travel demand is projected to remain robust in 2024, potential risks include:

• Global Economic Downturn: An overarching global economic downturn could pose challenges to the
anticipated growth.

• Rise in Travel Costs: Escalating travel costs might dampen the enthusiasm of potential travelers.

• Political Instability: Ongoing political instability and conflicts on a global scale could also impact the
tourism industry.

In conclusion, the outlook for the Maldives' tourism industry in 2024 is optimistic, with a strong surge in tourist
arrivals expected. Nevertheless, vigilance is warranted, given the potential risks that could influence the industry's
trajectory.
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MATATO News
 MALDIVES wins WORLD’S LEADING DESTINATION OF 2023
Maldives has once again emerged victorious at the World
Travel Awards 2023, clinching the prestigious title of World’s
Leading Destination for the fourth consecutive year. This
remarkable achievement adds to the Maldives' string of
successes, solidifying its reputation as a top travel destination.

Notably, the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations

Corporation (MMPRC) also received accolades by securing the
World’s Leading Tourist Board award for the second
consecutive year. This recognition underscores the Maldives'
commitment to excellence in promoting and managing its
tourism sector.

The awards ceremony, held in Dubai, showcased the global recognition and acclaim that the Maldives continues to
garner in the travel industry. The Maldives has consistently proven its appeal and allure, as evidenced by its
successful grasp of the World’s Leading Destination title in 2020, 2021, and 2022.

The World’s Leading Destination accolade holds unparalleled significance in the annual World Travel Awards
program, renowned as the most prestigious and comprehensive recognition in the global travel industry. This
repeated triumph reflects the Maldives' enduring charm, exceptional hospitality, and its status as a sought-after
destination for travelers worldwide.

‘PASSING OFF’ AND UNAUTHORISED USE OF OUR NAME AND LOGO

1. We, the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO), are a non-governmental, non-profit
organisation founded in 2006. As a result of our activities since 2006, we have gained a significant reputation and
goodwill in the travel and tourism industry in the Maldives.

2. We have recently discovered that several ‘travel’ companies have been falsely representing themselves to be
members of this organisation by, among other ways, using our name and/or logo.

3. The actions of such companies are unacceptable - they damage our goodwill and reputation and are grossly unfair
to our fee-paying members. We note that we will be taking the strictest legal measures against such unlawful conduct.

4. It goes without saying that only members of our organisation are licensed or permitted to represent themselves as
members of MATATO. A list of our general members can be found on our website: https://matato.org/members-
page-1/

5. We, therefore, urge such companies to cease and desist their unlawful conduct.

6. We also urge the general public to be wary of obtaining services from such companies, some of whom have
defrauded their customers.

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MATATO News
 Why matato
In the last 17 years of MATATO existence, the association has had the chance to work with the following organizations:

EXPERIENCE

Seventeen Years of continued support and service to the industry. (Established in 2006, MATATO continues to contribute as strong partner to the
growth of the industry)

RECOGNITION AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

MATATO is a household name in the travel industry of Maldives, recognized at National and International Level. Members of MATATO benefit
from representation by an organization acknowledged by the stake holders. MATATO’s opinion and consultation is sought after from all areas
including the business sector and in the highest level of the government.

ADVOCACY AND LOBBYING

Lobbying with Government, MATATO has always liaised closely with government institutes, have held meetings with cabinet ministers on multiple
occasions addressing the concerns of our members and collectively, of the industry. MATATO continues to enjoy and benefit from this strong
collaboration with the government.

EXHIBITIONS, FAIRS AND DESTINATION MARKETING

MATATO has organized destination stands and roadshows, in India, Finland, Russia, Ukraine, Saudi Arabia, China, Malaysia, Macau, Indonesia,
UK, and many other countries.

AFFILIATIONS AND PARTNERSHIPS INTERNATIONAL

Pacific Asia Travel Association PATA – MATATO has signed an MOU with PATA for joint collaborations and projects. MATATO is also the local
chapter for PATA in Maldives.

TRAININGS AND WORKSHOPS

MATATO has been organizing various trainings and workshops for our members and industry

PUBLICATIONS

MATATO has been publishing an annual magazine, Maldives Finder for the last six years.

EVENTS AND REGOGNITION

MATATO has been organizing the Maldives Travel Awards annually for the last several years. The association also hosts the Maldives Travel
Conference annually.

© MATATO NEWS

All rights reserved.

MATATO NEWS MATATO NEWS

0CTOBER 2023 November
2023 13
MATATO News