The tourism industry in the Maldives is a direct contributor to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). As a key industry, tourism in the small island state has received a great deal of attention, especially in relation to economic impacts and politics. The topic of climate change, for example, has been discussed in relation to tourism development in the Maldives. The country remains popular among luxury tourists, but is also gradually receiving interest from budget travelers. This entry discusses the Maldives’ tourism policies and developments, top destinations, and future prospects.

The Maldives lies across the equator in the Indian Ocean, and consists of almost 1,200 coral islands uniquely formed around 26 natural atolls. Ninety-nine percent of the country is covered by water, and residents of the ...