The Maldives has achieved a new tourism milestone, recording over 2,080,134 tourist arrivals by December 10, 2025. This new record surpasses the previous year's figures, with the nation now targeting 2.2 million visitors by year-end.
The Maldives has become an early signatory to the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime, a landmark treaty adopted by the UN General Assembly in December 2024. Foreign Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel signed the convention in Hanoi, Vietnam, reinforcing the nation's commitment to global cybersecurity and its digital development strategy.
Marriott International's Autograph Collection is set to debut in the Maldives on November 1, 2025, with the rebranding of Raffles Maldives Meradhoo to The Halcyon Private Isles Maldives. This 38-villa luxury resort, owned by CDL Hospitality Trusts, will join Marriott's portfolio, offering guests unique experiences and Marriott Bonvoy benefits.
Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu recently lauded China as a steadfast partner for the Maldives and other small island states, emphasizing its role in promoting sustainability, resilience, and fairness on the global stage. He highlighted the deep friendship and shared progress between the two nations, underscoring China's commitment to multilateralism and non-interference. This praise follows his significant state visit to China in January 2024, where numerous bilateral agreements were signed.
The Bank of Maldives (BML) has launched Chinese Yuan accounts, a strategic move to bolster financial links and facilitate trade under the China-Maldives Free Trade Agreement. The new services, including Yuan current accounts, international transfers, Letters of Credit, and WeChat Pay integration, aim to enhance convenience for businesses and individuals.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu established the Digital Transformation Council on September 22, 2025, to spearhead the 'Maldives 2.0 – Digital-First Nation' vision. Chaired by Muizzu, the council will guide the three-year initiative aimed at digitizing government services, enhancing transparency, and fostering a digital economy, drawing inspiration from Estonia's success.
