The Maldives has been named the Official Host Country of ITB Berlin 2027, placing the island nation in the global spotlight at one of the world’s largest travel trade fairs.
The agreement was signed during ITB Berlin 2026 between Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) Managing Director Ibrahim Shiuree and Messe Berlin Chief Executive Officer Mario Tobias at the Maldives’ exhibition stand.
Mario Tobias welcomed the Maldives’ return as host country nearly a decade after its previous role, noting that the partnership reflects both the importance of ITB Berlin as a leading global tourism platform and the Maldives’ strong position in the international travel industry.
As the host country, the Maldives will organise the official opening gala of ITB Berlin on 15 March 2027 and lead a series of cultural events, tourism showcases and networking sessions from 16 to 18 March. The event is expected to strengthen partnerships with key European markets while highlighting the Maldives’ tourism offerings to the global travel industry.
The announcement follows a recent visit to Berlin by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, during which he met with Germany’s Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, reaffirming the close ties between the Maldives and Germany. The Maldivian government has also declared 2027 as “Visit Maldives Year 2027,” a nationwide campaign aimed at increasing global awareness of the destination through marketing initiatives, travel events and digital promotions.
Speaking on the sidelines of ITB Berlin 2026, VMC Managing Director Ibrahim Shiuree said the tourism fair provides an important platform to promote the Maldives’ diverse travel experiences to international partners and travellers.
He also highlighted the significance of the “Maldivian Night” event held during the exhibition, describing it as a celebration of the country’s culture, hospitality and traditions. Shiuree noted that the event offers an opportunity to showcase Maldivian folklore, talents and local delicacies, presenting the destination in a more personal and authentic way.
Although this year’s event was held on a smaller scale due to travel disruptions caused by airspace closures, he said it still demonstrated the resilience and warm hospitality of the Maldivian people. The event was also organised in partnership with the Bank of Maldives (BML), strengthening collaboration among industry partners.
VMC Chairman Abdullah Ghiyas said the Maldives’ tourism industry has evolved into a world-class sector in recent years, with 2025 marking a historic milestone as tourism revenue reached a record USD 5.5 billion.
He added that extensive marketing campaigns were carried out over the past year in collaboration with leading global tour operators and airlines, resulting in record-breaking tourist arrivals. According to Ghiyas, January this year recorded the highest monthly arrivals, while daily arrival records were surpassed three times in February alone.
Maldives Ambassador to Germany Aishath Shaan Shakir also noted that Germany remains a key partner in the Maldives’ tourism sector. She said German visitors travel to the Maldives for a variety of experiences, reflecting the strong relationship and trust shared between the two countries.
The Maldivian Night event was held as a colourful cultural gathering, featuring entertainment and a special prize draw for participants, further promoting the Maldives’ unique hospitality and vibrant traditions on the global stage.
