Qatar Airways to increase Maldives flight frequency to 21 flights per week

Qatar Airways has announced plans to increase the frequency of its flights to the Maldives, with the expanded schedule set to take effect from October 25.

According to a statement issued by the airline, it plans to operate flights to 170 destinations during this year’s winter season as part of its efforts to strengthen global connectivity. Under the expanded schedule, the number of weekly flights to the Maldives will increase from the current 12 to 21.

As one of the major airlines transporting tourists to the Maldives, Qatar Airways’ increased flight frequency is expected by the government to contribute to higher tourist arrivals from the Middle East, Europe, and the United States.

Speaking at a press conference held at the President’s Office, Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen said the positive results of ongoing collaboration with the tourism industry are expected to become evident during the final quarter of the year. He also revealed that seven additional airlines are scheduled to begin operations to the Maldives in preparation for the upcoming peak tourism season.

The regional aviation sector experienced significant disruption following the war that broke out between the United States and Iran on February 28, which affected flight routes across the Middle East. As these routes are crucial for a substantial share of tourists traveling to the Maldives, the disruption had previously presented considerable challenges for the country’s tourism industry.

However, statistics released by the Tourism Ministry show that tourist arrivals last month reached their highest level since regional tensions escalated.

The government has set a target of welcoming 2.5 million tourist arrivals during this year.