Tourism is the main source of income for the nation. Tourism began in the Maldives in the 70's. This industry has seen tremendous growth since and Maldives is now one of the top holiday destinations in the world. The government is committed to ecologically sustainable development of tourism.

The rapid growth of this industry is quite remarkable. In 1972, the total number of arrivals was just 1000, it is more than 400,000 today.

Similarly, the bed capacity has increased from 340 beds to 15,000 as new resorts were opened recently under the Tourism Master Plan. By 2005, this will reach 20,000 beds.

The economy improved significantly since tourism began in the Maldives. GDP per capita income has increased from US$ 273 in 1977 to US$ 860 in 1998.

1998 overall figures
Tourist Arrivals: 395,725
Average duration of stay (nights): 8.8
Bed capacity utilization rate: 76.5%
Growth in tourist arrivals 97-98: 8.3%

1999 current figures
No. of tourist resorts: 87
Bed capacity: 14,053
Increase in bed capacity 98-99: 17.8%