The Maldives is gearing up to welcome a surge in Chinese tourists, not only to its high-end resorts but also to decent guesthouses with affordable packages, according to industry insiders and analysts.

Abdulla Ghiyas Riyaz, chairman of the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation, highlighted the destination's broad appeal to Chinese travelers.

"While it is renowned for its luxury offerings, the Maldives also caters to budget-conscious travelers with guesthouses, affordable resorts and locally run experiences. Travelers can enjoy the same breathtaking beauty, explore the vibrant marine life and engage with local Maldivian culture at a fraction of the cost," he said.

Riyaz added that visa-free entry for Chinese travelers and diverse packages make the Maldives accessible and attractive to everyone.

"Tourism is a powerful bridge that fosters cultural exchange, mutual understanding and economic collaboration," he said. "The growing number of Chinese visitors to the Maldives strengthens people-to-people connections and enhances bilateral relations."

Developed as a holiday destination for snowbirds escaping winter and an idyllic summer getaway, the Maldives has emerged as a favored destination among Chinese travelers drawn to its warm sunshine, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. The archipelago is preparing for an influx of visitors during the Chinese New Year holiday.

For Chinese tourists, the Maldives' key appeal lies in its "hospitable and welcoming" people, said Mohamed Rasheed, founder and chairman of the China-Maldives Cultural Association.

"The Maldives is a secure, moderately prosperous society, free from social nuisances, making it safe for Chinese tourists," said Rasheed, who once served as the Maldives' ambassador to China. "The Maldivians have a high respect for the Chinese, and admiration, as very industrious, hardworking people."

Community tourism

While the Maldives is known for luxury tourism, Rasheed highlighted the growing popularity of community-based tourism, which offers affordable guesthouses and the option to purchase day passes to high-end resorts.

Riyaz said many resorts now offer Chinese-speaking staff members and tailored experiences such as private dining, water sports and cultural excursions.

The national carrier, Maldivian, has prioritized expanding flights to China, according to state broadcaster PSM News.

Ali Saleem, deputy managing director of Maldivian, told PSM News that China has become the top source market for Maldivian tourism. To meet the demand, the airline plans to launch wide-body flight operations on its routes to China.

Maldivian will connect Velana International Airport, the Maldives' main gateway, with Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu, offering three weekly flights, PSM News reported. These routes are expected to serve 60,000 passengers annually.

During a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi earlier this month, the Maldives' President Mohamed Muizzu said he was glad to see that China has become the country's largest source of tourists.

Riyaz said: "By collaborating on tourism promotions, joint ventures and direct investments in infrastructure, the Maldives and China can deepen their partnership. Educational exchanges, culinary festivals and business forums also promote tourism and showcase the rich heritage of both nations."

The Maldives recorded the highest annual tourist arrivals at 2 million last year, according to the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation.

"The Maldives has set an ambitious target of $5 billion in tourism receipts for 2025, building on the incredible momentum of 2024, a record-breaking year for the Maldives' tourism industry," it said in a statement.

Xinhua contributed to this story.

vivienxu@chinadailyapac.com