Visit Maldives takes part in Luxury Travel Mart 2021 (LTM), one of the most popular events in the luxury travel segment in Russia held in Moscow from 22nd to 23rd April 2021. The purpose of taking part in this two-day event is to maintain and strengthen the destination presence in the Russian market and establish Maldives as the top of the mind luxury destination among Russian travelers.

During LTM, Visit Maldives will be meeting with key luxury trade professionals to deliver the latest destination information and the experiences provided in Maldives with an emphasis on the higher-end segment, leisure and luxury. In addition, Visit Maldives will highlight the unique geographical formation of Maldives and the naturally social-distanced islands, focusing on the ‘one island one resort’ concept.

Maldives will be given further exposure through the destination sponsorship. Maldives will be featured on the press walls, backdrops, charging stations, lanyards and promotional materials of the fair. Additionally, Visit Maldives will join 54 pre-scheduled one-to-one meetings and speed networking sessions with travel trade in order to build strong business connections as well as increase the brand visibility and awareness of Maldives as one of the most safest and preferred destinations of choice.

The participants that take part in LTM include five-star hotels, resorts, as well potential investors in the field of leisure and travel industry, tour operators and travel agents with VIP clients. Previously, 405 exhibitors took part in LTM Moscow Spring 2020 and over 4500 guests attended LTM events in Moscow, Kiev and Almaty in 2019 and 2020.

Several initiatives have been conducted and are underway to market the destination in the Russian market. Last month, Visit Maldives attended MITT 2021, the largest travel trade show in Russia. During the event, Maldives won ‘Best Island Presentation’ and ‘Bright Exhibiting Award’. Afterwards, Visit Maldives hosted four roadshows in four major Russian cities to promote Maldives as the most preferred holiday destination for Russian travellers.

Furthermore, Visit Maldives recently concluded two media familiarization trips with Moya Planeta TV show and National Geographic with more to follow in the upcoming months targeting the Russian market. Currently, Visit Maldives is conducting a global campaign targeting Russia in collaboration with Expedia as well as digital and social media activities.

As of 07th April 2021, The Russian market is currently the top second highest performing market to Maldives tourism with an arrival figure of 67,996 arrivals according to statistics by the Ministry of tourism of Maldives. With the easing of travel restrictions and direct flight connectivity, there is potential for further growth from the Russian and CIS markets. A total figure of 324,465 travelers have arrived in the Maldives during 2021.