Destination Future concluded its inaugural Future Summit on August 20, 2024, at Kurumba Maldives, the birthplace of Maldivian tourism. The event was attended by key figures including Mr. Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO and Managing Director of MMPRC, and Abdulla Ghiyas, Chairman of MMPRC.

Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal opened the summit, expressing thanks to the organizers and participants for their contributions toward a more sustainable and innovative tourism industry.

Keynote Address 

Dr. Simad Saeed from CDE Consulting delivered a keynote on "Brand Maldives, Today and Tomorrow – A Sustainability Perspective," emphasizing sustainability in environmental protection, economic viability, and human capital development. He also recommended integrating tourism education in schools to foster a future generation supportive of sustainable practices.

Panel Discussions

Balancing Tourism Growth and Sustainability: Amjad Thaufeeg, Vice Chair of Destination Future, highlighted the need for strategic planning to balance growth with environmental and social responsibilities. The panel, including industry leaders, discussed integrating sustainable practices into tourism strategies.

Reimagining Destination Marketing: Moderated by Rifaa Saeed, this discussion featured strategies to enhance the Maldives' brand in a competitive market. Topics included cohesive branding, digital marketing, and sustainability integration.

Diversifying Beyond Sun, Sand & Sea: Led by Mr. Inad Ibrahim, this panel explored strategies to attract diverse traveler segments and broaden the Maldives' appeal.

Presentation by Maldives Airports Company

MACL presented plans for a new 78,000m² passenger terminal at Velana International Airport, set to open in 2025, aimed at enhancing passenger experience.

Closing Remarks 

President Hamza Saeed emphasized the importance of focusing on proven strategies for long-term success.

Sponsors and Support:

Exclusive Partner: Loti, offering luxury flights from Russia.

Exclusive Insurance Partner: Solarelle, providing essential insurance services.

Exclusive Venue Partner: Kurumba Maldives, the first resort in the Maldives.

Exclusive Digital Partner: Ooredoo Maldives, enhancing connectivity.

Additional sponsors included Seguro Insurance, Pacific Technology, Astrabon, Arriva, Mihaaru, Travel Trade Maldives, Intour Maldives, Event Maldives, and Print Lab.

Looking Ahead 

The next Future Summit is set for June 25, 2025. A detailed report on the 2024 summit will be published soon.

For more information, contact: 

Amjad Thaufeeg – future@destinationfuture.mv

About Destination Future

Destination Future promotes sustainable tourism, supports local talent, and preserves environmental and cultural values in the Maldives.

About the Future Summit

The Future Summit is an annual event organized by Destination Future to discuss the future of Maldivian tourism, featuring keynote speakers, panel discussions, and networking opportunities.