World Travel Awards push: Visit Maldives Corporation and CROSSROADS Maldives signed the host property agreement for the World Travel Awards Asia, Oceania & Indian Ocean 2026, kicking off preparations and reinforcing the Maldives’ pull with key regional tourism markets. Cruise tourism grows: The Maldives is set to welcome its first Chinese cruise ship visit on 23 June, with MAYA saying preparations are underway and noting cruise arrivals have already topped 14,000 this year. Tourism performance: VMC’s AGM reported its strongest financial performance in eight years, with 2025 self-generated income at MVR 32.54m, alongside record momentum for the wider sector. Direct air links boost arrivals: Australia–Maldives direct flights are driving a 16% jump in arrivals, and Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives marked the inaugural Australia–Maldives link with a Luxury Escapes familiarisation visit. Marine and environment action: Alila Kothaifaru, NH Maldives Kuda Rah, and Milaidhoo all ran World Environment Day/World Ocean Day activities including tree planting, reef awareness, lagoon clean-ups and coral planting. Local skills for hospitality: LUX* South Ari Atoll and MATI hosted students for a tourism career exploration programme covering culinary, service and housekeeping experiences. Ocean research focus: Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Minister Ahmed Shiyam said ocean research and marine resource identification are key to diversifying the economy and strengthening sustainability.