Vice President Faisal Naseem says the administration’s policy is to expand tourism to the north and south of the Maldives and establish the necessary support services—including sustainable and affordable air and sea transportation.
He made these remarks while speaking at the sixth edition of the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2022, which was held at Adhaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi, Maldives.
The Vice President highlighted how the tourism industry began in the Maldives 50 years ago. He stated that it was the hard work, dedication, and sacrifice of a few young pioneers who, against all odds, overcame many challenges and introduced tourism to the country.
Speaking about how the Maldives has remained the leading travel destination, the Vice President said that the country’s winning characteristic was genuine Maldivian hospitality, which is in every Maldivian’s true nature. He said that the warm, friendly, and generous reception and the mindset to provide guests with the best possible holiday experience is what makes the Maldives unique.
The Vice President also shed light on the hurdles the travel industry had to go through due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
He emphasized the precautionary measures taken by the administration when the Maldives was forced to close its borders and temporarily close resorts and guesthouse operations, which had a negative impact on the country's economy.
Vice President Faisal Naseem also presented SATA 2022 Awards to five professionals who did remarkable work in the tourism and hospitality industry.
