Indian online travel platform EaseMyTrip has announced the resumption of flight bookings to Maldives, months after suspending the service due to diplomatic tensions between the two countries. The move follows improved bilateral relations and comes just days before Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu’s scheduled state visit to India from October 7 to 10.
In January, EaseMyTrip had halted bookings to Maldives after Maldivian ministers allegedly made derogatory comments about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The incident led to a social media campaign #BoycottMaldives, resulting in significant cancellations of trips from India to the island nation.
Constructive dialogue paves way for resumption
Nishant Pitti, co-founder and CEO of EaseMyTrip, stated, “Basis positive developments in mending India-Maldives bilateral ties, by both governments, we are resuming bookings to the Maldives. This decision comes after careful consideration and follows a constructive dialogue with the Ministry of Tourism of Maldives delegation during their recent visit to India and our office.”
Maldives tourism industry welcomes the move
The Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) had previously written to EaseMyTrip, requesting a reversal of the decision to cancel flight bookings. Abdulla Ghiyas, president of MATATO, emphasized the importance of the Indian market for Maldives’ tourism sector, particularly for guest houses and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that rely on Indian visitors.
President Muizzu’s upcoming India visit
The resumption of bookings by EaseMyTrip comes at a crucial time, as Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu is set to visit India from October 7 to 10. The state visit is expected to further strengthen the bilateral ties between the two nations and address issues of mutual interest, including tourism.
Indian tourists crucial for Maldives’ economy
Last year, Maldives received 2 lakh Indian visitors out of the total 17.57 lakh tourists, highlighting the significance of the Indian market for the island nation’s tourism-dependent economy. The resumption of bookings by EaseMyTrip is expected to boost tourist arrivals from India and support the recovery of Maldives’ tourism industry.
Conclusion
EaseMyTrip’s decision to resume flight bookings to Maldives signifies the improving bilateral relations between India and Maldives. As a leading player in the Indian travel industry, EaseMyTrip’s move is likely to encourage more Indian tourists to visit the island nation, benefiting both countries’ economies. With President Muizzu’s upcoming visit to India, the two nations are poised to further strengthen their ties and explore new avenues for cooperation in the tourism sector.
