The Ministry of Tourism and Environment has stated that only content prepared with accurate information and in compliance with social standards can be used to promote tourism in the Maldives. The ministry has formulated and published regulations concerning the advertisement of tourist facilities. Sometimes, tourism in the Maldives is advertised in ways that distort the authenticity of places or misrepresent reality. This negatively impacts tourists’ trust in Maldivian destinations and experiences. To minimize such issues, the Ministry of Tourism has developed regulations for advertising tourist facilities.
Under these regulations, advertisements are defined as those made in print, digital, online, video, and social media platforms. The Ministry of Tourism stated that the main objective of these regulations is to ensure that various advertisements or information provided to generate interest in the Maldives as a tourist destination abroad are accurate. It also aims to present a vision to potential tourists about tourist facilities, their surrounding environment, and other available services in a manner that does not harm Maldivian tourism.
The Ministry of Tourism emphasizes that this is to encourage tourists visiting the Maldives to have the desired and satisfying experience during their stay. The ministry has also specified the areas to which these regulations apply.
The areas covered by these regulations are:
• Tourist Resorts
• Integrated Tourist Resorts
• Private Islands
• Tourist Hotels
• Tourist Guesthouses
• Tourist Vessels
• Yacht Marinas
• Diving Centers
• Water Sports Centers and Water-Related Sports and Excursion Centers
The Ministry of Tourism stated that tourism-related advertisements and their messages must be in line with and not contradict Maldivian laws and regulations. The ministry also emphasized that advertisements for tourist facilities should not include content that is socially, culturally, or religiously inappropriate.
Furthermore, tourism-related advertisements must provide accurate information about the surrounding environment and available services. The regulations stipulate that advertisements for tourist accommodation facilities must provide accurate information about such places. The ministry also stated that advertisements should not contain content that is derogatory towards any other country, culture, or any such entity.
The Ministry of Tourism added that places advertised for tourist accommodation must be registered with the Ministry of Tourism or have an operating license. Advertisements should be made specifying the category under which they are registered or licensed to operate.
