Maldives Appointed Chair of UN South Asia Tourism Commission

The Maldives has been appointed as Chair of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Commission for South Asia (CSA) for the 2025–2027 term, reinforcing the country’s leadership role in regional tourism development.

The appointment was announced during the 60th meeting of the CSA and the 37th Joint Meeting of the UNWTO’s East Asia and Pacific and South Asia Commissions, held this week in Jakarta. The Maldives served as Co-Chair of the Joint Meeting and presided over the CSA meeting, further highlighting its active participation in global tourism forums.

State Minister for Tourism Dr. Abdulla Niyaz represented the Maldives at the sessions. In his address, he emphasized the country’s strategic efforts to diversify its tourism offerings, including initiatives to expand tourism in inhabited islands. He noted that this approach brings tangible economic benefits to local communities and enhances cultural exchange by allowing visitors to experience authentic Maldivian life.

Dr. Niyaz also underlined the importance of environmental sustainability, reiterating the Maldives' commitment to balancing tourism growth with the protection of its natural resources.

As Chair of the CSA for the next two years, the Maldives will play a key role in shaping tourism policies and collaboration efforts across South Asia. The country’s leadership comes at a time when the region is looking to revitalize and innovate its tourism sector post-pandemic.

The meetings in Jakarta provided a platform for member states to share best practices and align on future priorities for sustainable and inclusive tourism development.