Maldives secured 30 awards at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2024, which took place on 20th September 2024 at the Aloft Kathmandu, Nepal, and was supported by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the Hotels Association of Nepal (HAN). Since 2016, SATA has recognized the best of South Asia’s hospitality and travel industry. The prestigious annual event honors stellar organizations and individuals in a wide array of categories.
Maldives was honored with 15 SATA Gold Awards, recognising excellence across various segments of its hospitality and tourism industry. Maldives also won the prestigious Visitors’ Choice Award for Leading Beach Destination, reaffirming its reputation as a top choice for travelers seeking idyllic beach holidays. The country had previously won the award for Leading Beach Destination in 2023, 2017, and 2016 as well. In addition to the Gold Awards, Maldives secured 14 SATA Silver Awards, demonstrating excellence in various categories.
The event also featured a SATA Conversation Panel Discussion on “Regional Tourism in South Asia – Challenges & Connectivity,” with key industry leaders participating. Mr Ibrahim Shiuree, the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director (CEO & MD) of Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/ Visit Maldives), represented the Maldives on the panel, alongside prominent figures such as; Mr Sanjeev Kumar, President of Voyages Kerala; Mr Taufiq Rahman, Secretary General of the PATA Bangladesh Chapter; and Ms Nandini Lahe-Thapa, Senior Director of PR and Publicity/ Crisis Cell of Nepal Tourism Board.
Speaking at the panel, Shiuree emphasized the significance of regional tourism cooperation and the Maldives’ appeal as a short-haul destination for South Asian travelers, “The Maldives offers a unique combination of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. These natural wonders make us a highly desirable destination for tourists, especially for short-haul tourists from SA countries. I believe our worthwhile and value-added experiences contribute greatly to the growth and empowerment of the regional tourism sector.”