Chinese tourists have reclaimed their position as the top source market for Maldives tourism, with arrivals nearing pre-pandemic levels. Flight traffic between China and the Maldives has surpassed pre-pandemic numbers, showing a 144% recovery rate, and new direct flights from Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Xi’an are set to begin next month. However, recent challenges include a surge in flight cancellations by China’s Capital Airlines and Sichuan Airlines, as well as a significant drop in bookings by travel agencies in November and December. Shifts in travel patterns, such as more tourists opting for stays on local islands, and increased competition from domestic tourism and social media influencers are adding pressure to the Maldives tourism market. As of November 12, 2024, Chinese tourists accounted for 14.1% of total arrivals, with 244,000 visitors, approaching 86% of 2019 levels.