The Ministry of Tourism in association with the International and Domestic Airports of the Maldives, conducted special welcoming programs for tourists visiting the Maldives on 27th September 2017  to celebrate World Tourism Day 2017.

The airports were decorated with special banners and airport staff wearing traditional outfits, welcomed tourists with various cultural performances and offered the visitors welcome drinks and traditional souvenirs.

Furthermore, on 30th September, The Ministry of Tourism collaborated with The Tourism Industry of Maldives, Ministry of Education and Schools to conduct Exposure Trips for students.

Students were brought exposure to the tourist establishments which saw Forty one tourist establishments in 16 atolls welcome 415 students, 130 teachers and 77 parents from 42 schools.

The purpose of this event was to provide, first-hand experience to students, parents and teachers on various aspects of operations in tourist resorts and guest houses as well as to provide them with an opportunity to clarify information on career opportunities and work related matters.

"It is vital that more locals, especially young school leavers join the tourism industry to gain the maximum benefit from the flourishing tourism industry. These trips provided students with valuable information, encouraging students to build their career in the tourism industry. "Reeds a statement by the tourism industry.

Every year, the Maldives celebrates World Tourism Day with a week of activities which commences from 27th September under a theme set by UNWTO. This years UNWTO theme for World Tourism day was "Sustainable Tourism a tool for development".