Tourism growth dependent on linking airports with resorts: Afeef

Hussain Afeef (Champa Afeef), Vice Chairman of the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) and a pioneer of the country’s tourism sector, said on Thursday that with airports being developed across the Maldives, the industry must prepare to strengthen links between airports and tourist establishments.

Speaking at a ceremony held at Kurumba Maldives to mark Maldives Tourism Day, Afeef said transport had been the most significant challenge since the introduction of tourism.

“When tourism develops, there must be adequate staff, vehicles and seaplanes to carry tourists, and infrastructure must also be developed,” he said. “With the new airports, it will be a challenge if the transport sector is not developed in line with the expected increase in visitors.”

He noted the heavy reliance of the industry on seaplane services and emphasised the need for alternative arrangements in case operations are disrupted.

Afeef also highlighted the role of young people in shaping the future of the sector. He said youth involvement could expand guesthouse operations in different parts of the country and help increase visitor numbers.

“Young people can start businesses in their islands and provide professional services to tourists staying at guesthouses. Restaurants and diving facilities can be managed professionally. This is important for the future,” Afeef said.

He also stressed the importance of strengthening transport connections to guesthouse islands to ensure sustainable growth in the sector.