President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to developing a more resilient, sustainable and future-ready tourism industry while protecting the natural environment, cultural identity and hospitality that underpin the country’s tourism brand.

The President made the remarks in a message marking World Tourism Day 2026, observed on September 27 under the theme “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism.”

Muizzu thanked the individuals and businesses working across the tourism sector, crediting their contribution to establishing the Maldives as a leading international tourism destination.

He also highlighted tourism’s broader contribution to national development, saying the industry has created opportunities across the islands and connected Maldivian communities with millions of international visitors.

AI transforming the tourism experience

According to the President, digital technologies and artificial intelligence are increasingly changing how people discover destinations, organise their holidays and experience tourism.

He said these technologies could provide destinations with new ways to reach visitors, enhance services and strengthen their competitiveness in the international tourism market.

Muizzu stressed that the Maldives must therefore continue investing in digital innovation, skills and technological capabilities to remain competitive as the global tourism industry evolves.

At the same time, he emphasised that technological advancement should not come at the expense of the characteristics that distinguish the Maldivian tourism experience.

Technology should support, not replace, hospitality

The President said technology should complement rather than replace the human element at the centre of Maldivian hospitality.

He stressed that maintaining the country's warmth, authenticity and unique identity will remain important even as artificial intelligence and other digital technologies become more deeply integrated into tourism.

Muizzu said continued innovation, cooperation and investment in people will be necessary for the Maldives to adapt to changes in the global tourism industry.

The 2026 World Tourism Day theme reflects the growing role of AI and digital technologies in tourism, including destination discovery, trip planning and visitor experiences. UN Tourism has also highlighted the need for digital transformation to remain people-centred and inclusive.

The President concluded his message by reaffirming the Maldives’ commitment to using digital opportunities to build a tourism sector that is resilient, sustainable and prepared for the future, while preserving the qualities that have long defined the Maldivian tourism experience.