Visit Maldives and Qatar Airways forge strategic partnership to boost tourism

The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/Visit Maldives) and Qatar Airways have entered into a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on promoting the Maldives as a premier tourism destination. The agreement, effective from April 28, 2025, was signed during the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025.

The MoU was signed by Matt Raos, Senior Vice President of Global Sales at Qatar Airways, and Ibrahim Shiuree, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Visit Maldives. This strategic partnership aims to leverage Qatar Airways’ expansive global network of over 170 destinations and MMPRC’s expertise in destination marketing to drive greater tourist arrivals to the Maldives.

Under the terms of the MoU, the two parties will work together on a range of initiatives, including tactical trade partnerships, direct-to-consumer marketing campaigns, media engagement efforts, and trade education programmes. Additionally, the collaboration will focus on developing innovative tourism products and content to position the Maldives as a must-visit luxury destination.

Raos highlighted Qatar Airways’ commitment to connecting travellers with top leisure destinations worldwide through its hub at Hamad International Airport in Doha. He noted that the partnership with Visit Maldives aligns with the airline’s mission to offer seamless travel experiences to high-demand holiday locations.

Shiuree emphasised that the partnership represents a strategic effort to connect with affluent global travellers. He noted that Qatar Airways’ reputation for service excellence and strong presence in premium markets aligns well with Visit Maldives’ goal of delivering immersive travel experiences and showcasing the unique luxury and natural beauty of the Maldives.

Qatar Airways currently offers multiple daily flights to Malé, providing smooth connections from major source markets. The airline has also established an interline agreement with Maldivian, the national airline, allowing passengers to combine international and domestic travel in a single booking. Upon arrival at Velana International Airport, passengers are seamlessly transferred to the domestic terminal for their connecting Maldivian flights. This system enhances access to 17 domestic destinations, including Dharavandhoo, Faresmaathodaa, Funadhoo, Fuvahmulah, Gan, Hanimaadhoo, Ifuru, Kaadedhdhoo, Kadhdhoo, Kooddoo, Maafaru, Maavarulu, Madivaru, and Thimarafushi.

This new partnership represents a significant advancement in the long-standing relationship between Qatar Airways and Visit Maldives. Qatar Airways has consistently been a key airline partner for the Maldives, offering outstanding connectivity from Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and beyond. The collaboration is expected to create new growth opportunities and solidify the Maldives’ status as a top global travel destination.