Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal has announced ongoing arrangements and projects aimed at achieving the goal of hosting the ITB fair in 2026. Speaking after participating in the ITB fair 2024, an annual event held in Berlin, Germany, Minister Faisal expressed optimism about attaining the opportunity to host the prestigious tourism exhibition.
The ITB fair, known for being the largest international tourism exhibition, is held annually in Berlin, but other countries are also given the chance to host it. This year, Oman hosted the event, drawing industry delegates from various countries. Minister Faisal highlighted that as a leading global tourism destination, Maldives prioritizes participation in the ITB fair each year.
Minister Faisal is confident that hosting the ITB fair in 2026 would significantly develop and boost the Maldivian tourism industry. He emphasized the need for discussions with stakeholders and the Maldives Marketing & Public Relations (MMPRC) to plan the required arrangements for hosting the event, acknowledging the considerable expenses involved. Minister Faisal is committed to achieving this goal through unified efforts.
MMPRC's Managing Director, Fathimath Thaufeeq, provided insights into Maldives' participation in the ITB fair 2024. She mentioned that 107 companies from the country participated in the event, conducting a Maldivian In Win, showcasing the nation's culture and traditional cuisine. Thaufeeq also highlighted the launch of a magazine promoting local tourism by the Guest House Association and the introduction of a media kit named "Maldives Finder 2024" by MATATO during the fair.
The ITB Berlin 2024 took place from March 5 to March 7 and was attended by delegates from the Ministry of Tourism, investors from the tourism industry, Maldivian companies in the tourism sector, and high-level delegates from MMPRC.