MU Maniku calls for increased flights to remote atolls to boost tourism

The Maldives Association for Tourism Industry (MATI) Chairman, Mohammed Umar Maniku (MU Maniku), has emphasized the need for increased flight connectivity to remote atolls to expand tourism in the Maldives.

Speaking at a panel discussion on Tourism Day, MU Maniku, a veteran of the tourism industry, highlighted that the lack of adequate flights poses a significant barrier to promoting tourism in the outlying atolls. While seaplane services have played a crucial role in expanding tourism in atolls closer to Velana International Airport, the more remote atolls continue to face challenges due to limited transportation options.

“We have built airports in many atolls, but currently, most of them have very few flights,” MU Maniku said. “Over-concentration on resorts around Male’ Atoll is not sustainable. We need to focus on other atolls.”

MU Maniku stressed that the development of tourism facilities in remote atolls is contingent upon improved connectivity. He cited the difficulties faced by resorts in Gaafu Alifu and Gaafu Dhaalu atolls due to insufficient flight options. “Even if airports are built, how can this be done with just one or two flights? Connectivity is very important,” he said.

Champa Hussain Afeef, Chairman of Crown & Champa Resorts and another panel member, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that merely building an airport is not enough. “We have to plan how to operate the airport,” Afeef said.

By increasing flight frequency to remote atolls, MU Maniku believes that the Maldives can significantly expand its tourism industry and promote sustainable development in these regions.