MATI elected to UN Tourism Board of Affiliate Members for 2026–2029 term

The Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) has been elected to the UN Tourism Board of Affiliate Members for the 2026–2029 term, marking a significant milestone as the first organisation from the Maldivian tourism sector to serve on this international board.

MATI secured one of two regional seats allocated to South Asia, underscoring the Maldives’ growing influence within the region’s tourism landscape. The association will be represented on the board by Asad Ali, Deputy Secretary General of MATI.

The Board of Affiliate Members functions as an advisory body to the UN Tourism Secretary-General, aligning its member organisations with the overarching goals, mission, and programme of work of UN Tourism. Comprising 20 elected positions — including 12 Regional Members from six global regions and eight Global Members — the Board is responsible for making administrative and technical decisions between plenary sessions and for providing strategic recommendations on the programme of work and annual objectives for Affiliate Membership.

Among its key functions, the Board offers guidance to the Secretary-General on matters concerning the Affiliate Members’ Programme of Work, advises on strategic issues related to membership, and carries out tasks delegated by the Plenary or Committee.

Ali is scheduled to attend the Board’s first meeting on 11 November 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, during the 26th General Assembly of UN Tourism, where discussions will focus on global tourism development and cooperation.

MATI was first granted Affiliate Membership of UN Tourism during the 23rd UNWTO General Assembly on 11 September 2019, becoming the first organisation from the Maldives to achieve this status.