President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has extended an invitation to the Bollywood film industry to utilise the stunning natural landscapes of the Maldives for movie productions. He made the proposal while speaking at the India-Maldives Business Forum in Mumbai, during his first official visit to India.
Speaking at the second edition of the forum, President Dr. Muizzu emphasised that tourism goes beyond just transportation, as it strengthens bilateral ties, fosters cultural harmony, and promotes peaceful friendships between nations. He noted that nearly 100,000 Indian tourists had visited the Maldives this year alone, highlighting the growing relationship between the two countries.
Additionally, President Dr. Muizzu pointed out that India ranks among the top 10 tourist markets for the Maldives, underscoring the strength of their relationship and the potential for new opportunities that can benefit both nations. He highlighted the Maldives' status as one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations for four consecutive years, attributing this success to the trust that global travelers have placed in the country.
Furthermore, President Dr. Muizzu remarked that Indian tourists are particularly drawn to the Maldives for its unique experiences, noting the growth of eco-tourism, wellness tourism, and film tourism. As such, he invited Bollywood filmmakers to take advantage of the Maldives' natural beauty for their productions, emphasising the emotional connection Indian visitors often develop with the destination.
Moreover, President Dr. Muizzu outlined his administration's plans to expand tourism across the country. He noted the Hanimaadhoo International Airport project, which will open up tourism in the northern regions, as well as the Velana International Airport (VIA) expansion, aimed at further boosting tourism.