Malé ranks 9th among world’s most captivating aerial views in global study

A new global study has revealed the world’s most captivating cities from the air, and Malé, the capital of the Maldives, has made an impressive showing, ranking 9th globally. Conducted by Remitly, a trusted provider of financial services, the study utilised eye-tracking technology to determine which destinations capture travellers’ attention the most as they approach from above, offering spectacular first views before they even land.

The Maldives’ capital city, Malé, known for its stunning ocean vistas and surrounding atolls, held participants’ gaze for 8 minutes and 11 seconds out of a possible 16 minutes and 40 seconds. The study attributed Malé’s allure to its breathtaking aerial views, with the crystal-clear waters and picturesque islands creating an unforgettable impression for visitors as they descend towards the city.

Prague, the Czech Republic’s historic capital, was crowned the most visually captivating city from the air, holding participants’ attention for an astounding 14 minutes and 8 seconds. The city’s rich architectural heritage, including landmarks like the Charles Bridge and its distinctive terracotta rooftops, are among the key attractions that mesmerised travellers.

Accra, Ghana’s bustling capital, took second place with views of its Atlantic coast, including the beaches of Kokrobite and Laboma, holding participants’ focus for over 11 minutes. Amsterdam, Netherlands, known for its iconic canals and compact city layout, ranked third with its stunning aerial perspectives.

Over half of the top ten destinations are located in Europe, with cities like Frankfurt, Germany (4th) and Vienna, Austria (5th) adding to the list of visually striking locations. Frankfurt’s modern skyline, dominated by gleaming skyscrapers, contrasts with Vienna’s more traditional, historic architecture, offering visitors two very different but equally appealing experiences from the sky.

The full ranking of the top ten most eye-catching destinations from the air includes:

1. Prague, Czech Republic – 14 mins 8 seconds
2. Accra, Ghana – 11 mins 3 seconds
3. Amsterdam, Netherlands – 10 mins 42 seconds
4. Frankfurt, Germany – 10 mins 41 seconds
5. Vienna, Austria – 9 mins 55 seconds
6. Lagos, Nigeria – 9 mins 12 seconds
7. Dublin, Ireland – 8 mins 59 seconds
8. Singapore, Singapore – 8 mins 57 seconds
9. Malé, Maldives – 8 mins 11 seconds
10. Zurich, Switzerland – 6 mins 27 seconds

While European cities dominated the top ten, the U.S. also made a strong showing, with Indianapolis leading the way for American destinations at 11th place. Indianapolis, home to the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, offers striking views for motor racing enthusiasts flying into the city. Other U.S. cities, including Boston (14th), Washington D.C. (15th), Austin (16th), and Las Vegas (19th), also made the top 20 for their captivating aerial appeal.

The study highlights how certain cities around the world leave a lasting impression on visitors, even before they land, underscoring the role that aerial views can play in shaping travellers’ first experiences of a destination. With Malé ranking alongside some of the world’s most iconic cities, the Maldives continues to solidify its place as one of the globe’s most stunning destinations.