Maldives welcomed the first visitor of 2021 at Velana International Airport this morning.

The first visitor, a German national, Jochen Paul Karch, arrived on Qatar Airways (QR 674). He was greeted by officials of the Ministry of Tourism, Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), Maldives Immigration and Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL).

Today also marks the launching of Maldives Border Miles loyalty program. Tourists can register on the program and start earning points by travelling to Maldives from 1st January 2021 onwards. Once a tourist is registered as a member of the program, they will earn points based on the duration of stay, visits to celebrate special occasions, visits on local occasions of Maldives, frequency of visits, and other aspects. The lucky first visitor was granted the first Maldives Border Miles loyalty card (Aida, Bronze tier) by the Controller General of Maldives, Mr. Mohamed Ahmed Hussain, which entitles him to countless benefits and rewards with each border crossing.

He was also gifted a holiday voucher of a 7-night stay at double room on a full board basis at Sun Island Resort & Spa, which was presented by the Managing Director of Maldives, Mr. Thoyyib Mohamed. Additionally, the Ministry of Tourism and MACL also presented him with special gifts.

The Managing Director of Visit Maldives, Mr. Thoyyib Mohamed, remarked, “We are extremely pleased to greet the first visitor of 2021. After a hectic year, we are thrilled to have entered this stage where we are welcoming the first of many visitors. We want to ensure everyone that we will work hard to promote and market the destination and reach our targets for the year. Thank you everyone and we wish you a very Happy New Year!”