Millennials accounts for majority of tourists visiting Maldives

The ‘Maldives Visitor Survey 2025’ recently published by the Tourism Ministry, has revealed that Millennials represent the largest segment of tourists visiting the Maldives, with 47 percent of visitors falling within the 29 to 44 age group, comprising individuals born between 1981 and 1996.

Industry experts have described the findings as significant evidence of the growing influence of younger generations on the Maldivian tourism market. The annual survey serves as an important resource for analyzing visitor demographics, travel patterns and behaviors among tourists arriving in the country.

Following Millennials, the largest visitor groups are Generation X (aged 45 to 60) and Generation Z (under 28 years). The survey indicates that Gen X travelers account for 24 percent of arrivals, while Gen Z visitors make up 20 percent. Baby Boomers, aged 61 to 80, represent eight percent of the overall market share.

The Ministry stated that the figures highlight the Maldives’ strong appeal among young and middle-aged travelers. The report also noted that Gen X continues to be a high-spending segment within the premium tourism market, contributing significantly to sustained demand for the country’s luxury resorts.

In terms of professional background, approximately 60 percent of visitors are professionals or business owners. The survey found that 32 percent hold professional positions, while 26 percent are business owners or managers. The Ministry said the findings reinforce the Maldives’ position as a premium destination primarily attracting high-income travelers.

Skilled workers account for eight percent of visitors, while six percent are employed in sales or service-related sectors. Clerical and administrative professionals make up six percent, matching the share of retired visitors. Digital and technology professionals represent five percent, while homemakers and students each account for three percent. Unemployed individuals and creative professionals each comprise two percent, with content creators and influencers representing one percent.

By nationality, Indian visitors recorded the highest proportion of professionals, at 55 percent. This was followed by visitors from the United States at 49 percent, Germany and Spain at 41 percent, and the United Kingdom at 39 percent. The survey also found that 35 percent of Swiss visitors, 30 percent of French visitors and 29 percent of Italian visitors are professionals.

Russian visitors recorded the highest proportion of business owners and managers, accounting for 36 percent of arrivals from the country. They were followed by visitors from France at 29 percent, Spain at 27 percent, Switzerland at 26 percent and China at 23 percent. Around one-fifth of visitors from the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, India and the United States were also identified as business owners or managers.

The survey further found that the majority of tourists travel to the Maldives with a partner or family member. Results indicate that 77 percent of visitors travel as couples or with family, with 65 percent travelling exclusively with their partner. The findings further reinforce the Maldives’ reputation as a leading romantic destination. Family travelers account for 12 percent of visitors, including 10 percent travelling with children and two percent travelling as part of multi-generational groups. Those travelling with friends or mixed groups represent 13 percent, while solo travelers account for eight percent. Organized tour or study groups make up the remaining two percent.

Another key finding highlighted by the survey is the high number of repeat visitors. Data shows that one in every four tourists has previously visited the Maldives. While 73 percent of visitors are first-time arrivals, 20 percent have visited between two and five times, and three percent have visited more than ten times. The survey also found that 81 percent of visitors did not consider any alternative destination before travelling to the Maldives. Among those who considered other options, Sri Lanka and Thailand were the most commonly considered alternatives.

Based on these findings, the Tourism Ministry stated that the Maldivian tourism industry is built on strong relationships and distinctive experiences. The high number of affluent professionals and entrepreneurs visiting the country highlights continued demand for premium and luxury services. The Ministry also noted that 78 percent of surveyed visitors identified the Maldives as their first-choice destination.

The Ministry stated that the findings demonstrate the continued strength of the Maldives’ position in the global tourism market and will play an important role in shaping future tourism policies. Consultations with industry stakeholders regarding the survey findings are currently ongoing.