According to the Ministry of Tourism, the Maldives government is seeking options of directing international arrivals to southern atolls.
Moreover, according to Minister of Tourism Dr. Abdulla Mausoom the state’s initiative will seek direct international flight landings at Addu and Huvadhoo atolls in a bid to expand tourism, and expand international airport venues apart from Velana International Airport (VIA).
During his visits to southern atolls which included Addu, Huvadhoo and Fuvahmulah City, Minister Dr. Mausoom had visited various tourist establishments operating in these areas.
Furthermore, the minister had met with tourism entrepreneurs and other industry affiliates to assess the magnitude and scope at which tourism is operated in these regions.
“Our aim is to seek viable options of expanding the tourism sector in these areas of the country. The target is to establish sustainable tourism in these areas without exclusively depending on Velana International Airport for international tourist arrivals” the minister said.
The minister was met by several representatives and key stakeholders running tour operators and travel agencies who have focuses in boosting tourism across southern atolls.
Moreover, speaking about the prospect of tourism in the southern areas of the country, the owner of ResortLine Mr. Shaaz Waleed had claimed the area was home to properties with a combined bed capacity between 3,000 to 5,000.
“What we need is a proper transport mechanism. The area is ripe with tourist properties and comes with potential,” Mr. Waleed commented.
Furthermore, he was optimistic about establishing direct aviation links between South African destinations and the southern region of Maldives.