Women in Maldives’ hospitality: Overcoming challenges, shaping future

Maldives, a nation synonymous with luxury hospitality and world-renowned tourism, has witnessed a steady transformation in the role of women within the industry. Traditionally, hospitality in the Maldives has been male-dominated, particularly in leadership and operational roles at resorts. However, in recent years, there has been a notable rise in female representation across various levels of the sector. As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, it is essential to recognise the challenges women continue to face, acknowledge their growing presence in the industry, and highlight the opportunities that lie ahead.

Despite the significant strides made, women in the Maldives’ hospitality industry still encounter several hurdles that limit their full participation and career growth.

• Cultural and Social Norms: Many Maldivian women face societal expectations that discourage them from pursuing careers in hospitality, particularly at island resorts where living away from family for extended periods is often required. This remains a major barrier, as families and communities may prefer women to work in roles closer to home.
• Work-Life Balance: The demanding nature of the hospitality industry, with long hours and shifts that extend beyond the traditional workweek, poses challenges for women, especially those with caregiving responsibilities. Limited childcare support and the expectation of maintaining household duties further restrict career progression.
• Gender Stereotypes and Bias: Women in the industry often encounter biases that limit their access to leadership roles. While many women thrive in administrative and guest relations positions, operational roles such as general managers, executive chefs, and engineering heads remain largely male-dominated.
• Safety and Harassment Concerns: Workplace safety, particularly at remote resorts, is a concern for many women. While some resorts have taken steps to ensure safer working environments, instances of gender-based harassment and discrimination still exist.
• Limited Training and Development Opportunities: While hospitality training institutions exist in the Maldives, fewer women enrol in programmes that prepare them for technical and leadership roles. This lack of access to professional development affects career advancement.

Despite these challenges, the number of women in the Maldives’ hospitality workforce is steadily increasing. The industry is witnessing an inspiring shift, with more women entering roles that were once considered off-limits. Several key developments are contributing to this positive change:

• Resort Policies Encouraging Female Employment: Many hospitality brands operating in the Maldives have adopted diversity and inclusion policies aimed at hiring more women and creating environments where they can thrive. Some resorts provide separate accommodations for female staff and implement zero-tolerance policies against workplace harassment.
• Women in Leadership: A growing number of Maldivian women are now leading in managerial and executive positions. Women such as resort general managers, department heads, and HR directors are setting examples for future generations.
• Training and Education Initiatives: More institutions and organisations are offering scholarships and training programmes tailored for women in hospitality. These initiatives encourage skill development in culinary arts, hotel management, and technical roles.
• Women-Led Entrepreneurship in Hospitality: Some Maldivian women have ventured into entrepreneurship, starting boutique guesthouses, sustainable tourism initiatives, and travel agencies. This shift not only creates employment opportunities but also challenges traditional gender roles in the industry.
• Government and NGO Support: The Maldivian government and various non-profit organisations have been actively promoting gender equality through policies that support female employment in tourism. Programmes focusing on women’s empowerment, leadership training, and financial assistance for small businesses are helping bridge the gender gap.

While there is still work to be done, the Maldivian hospitality industry presents several opportunities for women to grow and succeed.

• Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives: As global hospitality brands continue expanding in the Maldives, they bring with them diversity and inclusion standards that create more opportunities for women. This is encouraging more resorts to adopt gender-equal hiring practices.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Recognising the challenges of work-life balance, some resorts are now introducing flexible work arrangements, remote work options (for administrative roles), and better maternity leave policies.
• Women’s Networking and Mentorship Programmes: Industry leaders and associations are forming mentorship programmes that connect aspiring female hospitality professionals with experienced mentors. These networks offer guidance, career advice, and support systems to help women advance in their careers.
• Growth in Sustainable Tourism: With the rising demand for eco-tourism and sustainable hospitality, more women are finding opportunities in environmental conservation, marine research, and community-based tourism initiatives. Women-led projects in these fields contribute to a more inclusive tourism industry.

International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the achievements of women in the Maldives’ hospitality industry while acknowledging the work that remains to be done. Overcoming societal and workplace challenges requires continuous effort from all stakeholders—including the government, private sector, and communities—to create an industry that is truly inclusive and diverse.

As more women break barriers and step into leadership roles, the future of the Maldivian hospitality industry looks increasingly promising. By supporting policies that promote gender equality, investing in training and development, and fostering an environment where women can thrive, the Maldives can build a hospitality industry that not only leads in luxury tourism but also in empowering its women workforce.

The time for change is now. As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, let us commit to creating a more inclusive and equitable future for all women in hospitality.