The Maldives will take centre stage as the Official Host Country of ITB Berlin 2027, bringing the beauty and diversity of the Indian Ocean archipelago to the world’s largest travel trade show.
The announcement was made during ITB Berlin 2026, where Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO and Managing Director of Visit Maldives, and Dr Mario Tobias, CEO of Messe Berlin, officially signed the agreement at the Maldives stand in Hall 5.2.
The designation marks the return of the Maldives as Host Country a decade after its first appearance in the role, reaffirming the destination’s strong relationship with the global tourism industry and with one of its most influential platforms.
“We are delighted that, 10 years after their first appearance as Host Country, the Maldives will once again take centre stage at ITB Berlin,” said Dr Mario Tobias. “This long-standing partnership underscores the importance of ITB Berlin as a global platform and highlights the Maldives’ prominent role in the international travel industry.”
He added that the 2027 edition will provide an opportunity to showcase the country’s extraordinary natural beauty while demonstrating how tourism and sustainability can evolve together.
A destination of global appeal
Comprising more than 1,000 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, the Maldives remains one of the most recognisable long-haul destinations in the world.
Turquoise lagoons, white sand beaches and rich coral reefs have made the country synonymous with high-end island escapes. However, the destination is increasingly highlighting the diversity of its tourism offering beyond luxury resorts.
As Host Country of ITB Berlin 2027, the Maldives plans to showcase experiences ranging from boutique properties and authentic local island stays to diving adventures, water sports, wellness retreats and cultural encounters.
Sustainability is expected to feature prominently in the country’s presentation, reflecting ongoing initiatives aimed at protecting fragile marine ecosystems and supporting local communities across the archipelago.
“ITB Berlin provides us with the ideal platform to showcase the unique experiences our islands offer to travellers from around the world,” said Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO and Managing Director of Visit Maldives. “We look forward to welcoming the global tourism industry in Berlin and highlighting the diversity, quality and hospitality that define the Maldives as a destination.”
Tourism diplomacy gaining momentum
The announcement follows a recent diplomatic milestone for the island nation. Just weeks before ITB Berlin 2026, Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu visited Berlin, where he was received by the German Federal President, underlining the growing strategic importance of relations between the Maldives and Germany.
Tourism remains the backbone of the Maldivian economy, and strengthening partnerships with European markets continues to be a priority for the country’s tourism authorities.
Germany has long been among the Maldives’ most important source markets, and the Host Country role at ITB Berlin offers a powerful platform to further consolidate that relationship.
“Visit Maldives Year” to mark 2027
The year 2027 has also been officially designated “Visit Maldives Year”, a nationwide tourism initiative announced by President Muizzu to further elevate the destination’s global visibility.
The campaign will involve international marketing initiatives, participation in major travel fairs, roadshows and digital campaigns aimed at showcasing the islands’ natural beauty, cultural heritage and world-class hospitality.
Through this global effort, the Maldives hopes to reinforce its position as one of the world’s leading long-haul destinations while promoting sustainable tourism development.
Maldives to take center stage at ITB Berlin 2026, bringing back the iconic Maldivian Night, presenting major activities, and showcasing new tourism initiatives alongside 68 co-exhibitors from 03–05 March 2026 in Berlin. pic.twitter.com/ockzGPez5A
— Visit Maldives (@visitmaldives) February 25, 2026
Spotlight on the Maldives at ITB Berlin
As Host Country, the Maldives will play a central role throughout ITB Berlin 2027. The destination will host the official opening gala on 15 March 2027 at the ITB Berlin venue, followed by three days of trade activities from 16 to 18 March.
Visitors can expect a prominent national stand, cultural performances, networking events and media activities designed to highlight the archipelago’s tourism offering.
By taking on the Host Country role once again, the Maldives signals its continued commitment to engaging with the international travel industry and strengthening ties with key European markets.
For the global tourism community gathering in Berlin in 2027, the islands of the Maldives are set to become the focal point of the world’s leading travel trade show.
