The Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) is proud to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO). This strategic partnership aims to enhance tourism cooperation between the Maldives and India, fostering closer collaboration and mutual growth in the travel industry.

This agreement marks a significant milestone in promoting tourism between the two nations, leveraging the strengths and networks of both MATATO and IATO to create more opportunities for travel and cultural exchange. The key objectives of the MOU include promoting bilateral tourism through joint marketing initiatives, sharing best practices to improve service standards and operational efficiencies, organizing joint events, roadshows, and fairs to highlight travel opportunities, and promoting sustainable tourism practices that benefit both nations.

Following the signing of the MOU, MATATO had a productive follow-up meeting with the High Commissioner of India to the Maldives, H.E. Munu Mahawar, as previously the Association met with his Excellency on April 9, 2024.

The upcoming roadshow is a major event designed to showcase Maldivian tourism to the Indian market, to be held in Mumbai, New Delhi and Bangalore, the major cities with the best flight connectivity. During the discussions, the Association emphasized the importance of the roadshow in strengthening tourism ties and agreed on enhanced cooperation to further tourism collaborations, detailed planning for the roadshow to ensure maximum impact, promoting cultural exchanges to deepen mutual understanding and appreciation, and securing support from stakeholders, including airlines, hotels, and travel agencies, to make the roadshow a resounding success.

The Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) is a leading organization dedicated to the development and promotion of the travel and tourism industry in the Maldives. MATATO represents the interests of travel agents and tour operators, advocating for policies that benefit the industry and working to enhance the Maldives' position as a top travel destination. The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) is India's premier travel trade body, representing over 1,800 tour operators across India. IATO is committed to promoting and developing tourism in India, ensuring high standards of service, and fostering international partnerships to enhance the travel experience for visitors.