Malé, Maldives — The Maldives marked a historic milestone on Thursday, welcoming its 2 millionth tourist of 2024. In a grand traditional ceremony, Astrid Dirnegger from Austria, visiting with her family for a Christmas holiday, was greeted at Velana International Airport by senior government officials and tourism representatives.

Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal and Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) Managing Director Ibrahim Shiuree personally welcomed Dirnegger, celebrating the country's achievement of its ambitious target of hosting over 2 million tourists this year.

The traditional welcome highlighted the Maldives’ rich cultural heritage and its continued dedication to providing world-class experiences for visitors. This milestone underscores the nation’s growing reputation as a global tourism powerhouse, attracting visitors from around the world with its pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and exceptional hospitality.

Minister Faisal hailed the achievement as a testament to the Maldives’ commitment to excellence and innovation in the tourism sector. “Welcoming our 2 millionth tourist signifies not just a numerical achievement but a celebration of the enduring appeal of the Maldives,” he said.

The Maldives continues to lead as a premier destination, setting new benchmarks for growth and sustainability in tourism. Officials expressed optimism about building on this success, with plans to further enhance the country's offerings and attract even more visitors in the coming years.

The arrival of the 2 millionth tourist reinforces the Maldives’ position as a sought-after destination and a key player in the global tourism industry.