In 2020, despite the ongoing pandemic, Maldives remarkably welcomed over 500k tourists. By the end of the year, India was ranked number one in terms of tourist arrivals to the country. With this positive growth from the market, Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) wants to further boost the arrivals and increase destination awareness with various marketing efforts.
For this purpose, MMPRC has launched a three-month-long joint marketing campaign with India’s leading integrated travel services company, Thomas Cook India Limited (TCIL). The purpose of this campaign is to increase travel demand to Maldives from India with highly focused marketing activities. It will also utilize digital channels of Thomas Cook India to create destination awareness and enhance destination visibility.
TCIL offers a broad range of services which includes Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services and E-Business. Commenting on the collaboration, Mr. Rajeeve Keele, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, TCIL has stated that “We are delighted to partner with the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation to jointly promote Maldives as destination of choice for our range of Indian traveler segments - including millennials, young working professionals, ad-hoc groups of friends and families. The Maldives has been an aspirational destination for Indians and our strategic intent will focus on highlighting the benefits/USPs of easy access and a free visa-on-arrival process, coupled with its eclectic vibe, stunning natural vistas and exclusive resorts to steer consideration towards Maldives and drive demand.”
Apart from this, other marketing efforts such as familiarization trips, campaigns targeting the Indian honeymoon segment and participation in major travel trade fairs in India are also scheduled for this year.
The strict safety measures in force and the naturally distanced nature of the island ensures that Maldives is a safe haven for all tourists.