China Continues to Boost Arrivals in Maldives – Top Tourist Source Market Dominates Arrivals

Carrying on the positive trend seen in 2024, the Maldives has enjoyed a surge in international arrivals this year, thanks largely to visitors from China. This tropical nation has emerged as a favourite destination for Chinese travellers looking to enjoy plenty of fun in the sun, sand and surf away from the cold winters back home. What’s more, private island luxury resorts such as Kuda Villingili, offering beach and overwater villas in Maldives, remain a popular choice for families, couples, wellness seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike.

The numbers speak for themselves. In 2024, China was the top tourist source market for the Maldives, and 2025 looks to be no different. According to figures from the Ministry of Tourism, though Italy, and subsequently Russia, became the leading source markets in the first few weeks of this year, China emerged on top by the last week of January. As of 10th February 2025, it remained in first place with a total of 50,330 visitors, accounting for 17% of the market share, and it is likely to dominate arrivals as the year progresses.