Maldives Media Meet highlights new campaign and UK relations at WTM London
The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/Visit Maldives) announced the successful hosting of the Maldives Media Meet, held on the sidelines of WTM London 2024. This exclusive in-person press conference took place at Excel London Hall N1-500, United Kingdom, on November 5, 2024.
The Maldives Media Meet was led by Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO & MD of MMPRC, with the support of Ibrahim Faisal, the Honourable Minister of Tourism; Dr. Iruthisham Adam, High Commissioner of Maldives to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; Abdulla Giyas Riyaz, Chairperson of MMPRC; and Hussain Afeef, a Maldives Tourism Industry Pioneer and Vice Chairman of the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI).
During his remarks, CEO & MD Ibrahim Shiuree expressed that “going beyond the pristine beaches and clear waters, there are many things that make our island destination truly unique and truly special. The real heart of our islands always has and always will remain the warmth and kindness of our people.”
Following his statement, MMPRC Chairperson Abdulla Giyas Riyaz noted, “Our vision at Visit Maldives includes a creative renaissance with many initiatives, where local talent is at the helm, bringing their ideas and dreams to life. Our latest global campaign, the ‘World’s Biggest Holiday Giveaway,’ offers an unprecedented opportunity for travellers to experience 365 days of magic in the Maldives. We believe this will attract new travellers, from new markets, with new dreams.”
Dr. Iruthisham Adam, the High Commissioner, also spoke at the conference, celebrating the 60 years of friendship between the Maldives and the United Kingdom. She highlighted that the Maldives offers British travellers not only natural beauty but also the chance to experience rich culture, world-class hospitality, and sustainable tourism. She extended an invitation for visitors to “discover ‘The Sunny Side of Life.’”
The Minister of Tourism, Ibrahim Faisal, underscored the Maldives’ commitment to environmental stewardship, stating, “We are committed to providing every visitor with an experience that respects and nurtures our environment. The aim is to ensure that future generations can enjoy this paradise just as we do today.”
The panel included Mohamed Khaleel, Advisor to the President on Tourism Development, and Hussain Afeef, who joined the Q&A session to provide insights in response to media questions.
A central highlight of the event was the launch of the new global campaign, “World’s Biggest Giveaway,” promoting the Maldives as a year-round destination through “52 Weeks of Unforgettable Experiences.” Throughout 2025, a weekly winner will receive a dream vacation to the Maldives, emphasising the nation’s beauty and unique offerings. Each week will spotlight themes like luxury, adventure, relaxation, romance, family, and more, inviting participants to experience the Maldives in diverse ways.
The Maldives Media Meet aimed to strengthen relationships with top UK media outlets, sharing the latest news and fostering a collaborative relationship to promote the Maldives as a leading, sustainable holiday destination for UK travellers, with the goal of increasing visitor arrivals ahead of the holiday season.
At WTM London, a major global travel industry event, MMPRC is showcasing the “Sunny Side of Life” along with 91 representatives from 217 industry companies, underscoring the Maldives’ appeal to UK travellers.