Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/ Visit Maldives) conducted the inaugural Tourism Symposium 2024 by Visit Maldives on 22nd October 2024 at Crossroads Maldives, initiating a new era in marketing. The symposium served as a platform for industry leaders to convene and address the pressing challenges and opportunities shaping the nation’s tourism landscape.
“I’m confident that by embracing new ideas and working together, we can build an even stronger and more diverse tourism sector. Let’s continue to innovate and create unforgettable experiences for every visitor that comes our way,” highlighted MMPRC’s CEO & MD, Ibrahim Shiuree, during the opening remarks.
The Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal focused on the future of the tourism sector in the Maldives, “To ensure the long-term sustainability of our tourism industry, we must adapt to evolving trends, address emerging challenges, and embrace innovative approaches.”
The Chairperson of MMPRC, Mr Abdulla Giyas Riyaz added, “Together, we can build a masterpiece where the Maldives not only thrives but leads, inspiring travelers and setting benchmarks for excellence, delivering a master class like no other across the world.”
The one-day event attracted a diverse array of key figures, policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders in the Maldives. Attendees delved into critical topics ranging from sustainability and diversification to health and safety, collaborative dialogue and innovative solutions. The event further featured a panel discussion, moderated by the Deputy Managing Director of MMPRC, Mr Zihuny Rasheed.
The panel featured prominent government delegates such as Minister of State for Tourism, Mr Munim Anees; Minister of State for Health, Ms Khadeeja Abdul Samad Abdulla; Minister of State for Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Ms Aminath Hussain Shareef; and Deputy Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mr Ahmed Salim Saeed. The panel discussion provided valuable insights from policy experts on strategies for a resilient and sustainable tourism sector.
Participants had the opportunity to network with stakeholders, gain insights, and collaborate on innovative strategies. The symposium further included interactive sessions with presentations and in-depth discussions to allow participants to work together to develop effective promotional campaigns, address industry challenges, and drive actionable recommendations for the future of the industry.
MMPRC presented the tentative marketing plan for 2025 for the Maldives, and participants were able to actively engage in offering ideas and insights on how best to integrate all aspects of tourism into the plan for a comprehensive marketing plan that appeals to travelers from around the world. MMPRC was also able to showcase a comprehensive solution for MICE tourism, encapsulating the Maldives as an ideal destination for large-scale MICE events that seamlessly integrate business with leisure.