Minister Thoriq calls for greater readiness, digital adaptation in tourism at Hotelier Maldives GM Forum 2025

Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim on Monday urged the Maldivian hospitality industry to stay agile and forward-looking as technology continues to reshape global travel behaviour.

Speaking as Chief Guest at the ninth edition of the Hotelier Maldives General Managers (GM) Forum 2025, Minister Thoriq emphasised that the government remains committed to supporting and facilitating the industry’s priorities amid rapid change.

“The world is changing fast. And technology, faster. How visitors plan their holidays, and how they expect their holiday to be like when they get here. We must be ready for these changes. We must be ready to harness and leverage these developments. The government remains committed and ready to support you, and facilitate your priorities,” he said.

Addressing a full house of resort leaders, Thoriq highlighted the GM Forum’s importance as a platform that brings together professionals who are directly responsible for maintaining the Maldives’ reputation as a premier travel destination. He acknowledged the relentless work of general managers and their teams who, through dedication and consistency, deliver world-class service that defines the nation’s tourism identity.

The Minister stressed that sustaining this global standing requires both vision and adaptability. “Maintaining this position requires that we continue with the same spirit. It also requires that we look to the future — that we analyse and anticipate the changes, be flexible, and be prepared,” he said.

Thoriq pointed to the government’s Maldives 2.0 initiative, launched under the administration of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, as a cornerstone of national transformation aimed at making the country more mobile, agile, and digitally empowered. He said the initiative aligns closely with this year’s GM Forum theme — Digitalisation and Expanding Experiences — and represents a shared vision between government and industry to embrace technological progress.

While encouraging the adoption of new technologies, the Minister underscored that digitalisation must remain inclusive and equitable. “Digitalisation and adoption of new technologies should not come at the expense of accessibility, and full community participation,” he noted.

Before concluding, Minister Thoriq congratulated the Hotelier Maldives team for successfully convening the event and commended the participants for their ongoing contribution to the nation’s tourism success story. “I wish all of you a very constructive discussion and a great day ahead,” he said.

Organised by Hotelier Maldives, the annual GM Forum is the country’s leading networking and knowledge-sharing event for resort general managers and senior hospitality professionals. The 2025 edition focuses on how digitalisation is transforming guest experiences, operations, and investment in the Maldives’ luxury resort sector.