The Maldives has held important discussions with Russia on bringing additional airlines to the Maldives. The discussions are being held as part of a high-level tourism delegation’s ongoing visit to Russia, aimed at strengthening cooperation in tourism and enhancing air connectivity.
During the visit, Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen met in Moscow with Russian State Secretary and Deputy Minister of Transport Dmitry Zverev, where they discussed several important issues. A key focus of the meeting was strengthening air connectivity, with both sides agreeing on the introduction of additional airlines serving the Maldives.
The high-level Maldivian delegation is undertaking a five-day official visit to Moscow and St Petersburg. The main objectives of the visit are to strengthen cooperation in tourism, enhance air connectivity and further develop partnerships within the tourism industry.
During the visit, the delegation is also scheduled to meet senior representatives of the Russian Government to discuss cooperation in tourism and civil aviation, air links between the two countries, and opportunities to increase flight capacity between the Maldives and Russia.
In addition, high-level meetings are scheduled with leading tour operators, travel trade partners, industry associations, digital platforms and tourism companies in Moscow and St Petersburg. These engagements will provide opportunities to gather market intelligence ahead of the upcoming tourism season and 'Visit Maldives Year 2027', identify emerging travel trends and explore opportunities for joint promotional activities, according to the Tourism Ministry.
Two industry networking events are also scheduled to take place in Moscow and St Petersburg, bringing together leading representatives of Russia’s travel trade, tourism industry stakeholders and the media. The events will showcase developments and emerging trends in the Maldivian tourism sector, while further strengthening ties with partners playing a key role in bringing tourists from the Russian market to the Maldives.
The visit is expected to support efforts to position the Maldives as an attractive destination in new markets, maintain the country’s popularity and strengthen travel and tourism links between Russia and the Maldives.