Maldives Association of Tourism Industry to Represent South Asia on UN Tourism Board, 2026–2029

Maldives’ MATI Steps onto the Global Tourism Stage

The Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) has won a prestigious place on the United Nations Tourism Board of Affiliate Members for the 2026–2029 term. This milestone highlights the Maldives’ rising prominence in the South Asian tourism market and beyond.

Regional Representation Secured

MATI secured one of the two coveted regional seats reserved for South Asia on the UN Tourism Board. This achievement signifies an important boost for the Maldives’ tourism sector on a global scale. Representing MATI will be Asad Ali, the Deputy Secretary General, who is set to voice the perspectives and priorities of the Maldivian tourism industry at international forums.

Roles and Responsibilities on the UN Tourism Board

The Board of Affiliate Members serves as a key advisory group to the UN Tourism Secretary-General. It consists of 20 elected members, including 12 regional representatives from six world regions and eight global members. This body is instrumental in shaping strategic frameworks, offering technical guidance, and steering the annual agenda for the Affiliate Members’ Programme.

Main Board Tasks Include:

• Providing counsel to the Secretary-General on programme priorities and working plans
• Handling administrative and technical decisions between full Board meetings
• Advising on strategic matters related to tourism membership and partnerships
• Executing delegated assignments from the UN Tourism Plenary or Committees

Looking Ahead to Strategic Dialogue

In early November 2025, Asad Ali is expected to participate in the Board’s inaugural meeting of the new term, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, during the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly. Discussions will center around global tourism development and avenues for international cooperation — topics that have far-reaching implications for travel suppliers and service providers alike.

From Affiliate Membership to Board Leadership

MATI’s journey with the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) began when it first gained Affiliate Membership in 2019. It has since been the first and only organisation from the Maldives tourism sector to hold this status, paving the way for its elevated role on the Board.

Why This Matters for Travelers and Transfer Services

The Maldives’ active participation in the UN Tourism Board highlights the growing demand for sustainable and strategic tourism development in the region. Enhanced collaboration often translates into improved infrastructure, better-managed tourist flows, and more refined services — including the realm of transfers and taxis.

For travelers booking airport transfers or city rides, platforms like LocalsRide.com can offer a clear edge. With the ability to select exact vehicles, check driver details, and compare prices transparently, it aligns perfectly with the global tourism push for quality, convenience, and customer confidence.

MATI’s UN Tourism Board Membership Snapshot

The Bigger Picture: What Inclusion Means for the Industry

Being part of such a high-level advisory board creates opportunities to influence how the tourism market evolves, especially around sustainable practices, digital transformation, and greater inclusivity. These initiatives affect everything from destination management to transport logistics, a key factor if you’ve ever wondered about the quality and pricing of taxis, limousines, or private car services at your airport or hotel.

In a tourism world increasingly focused on personalized, seamless journeys, the Maldives’ role can indirectly encourage better service standards and fair pricing models. Whether it’s grabbing a cheap seater taxi or opting for a premium limousine, travelers can expect improvements aligned with global best practices.

Why User Experience Trumps All

Important as board seats and policies are, nothing beats firsthand experience. Reviews and feedback set the tone, but your own ride, the exact service you book, and the driver delivering that experience shape your true perception.

On platforms like LocalsRide.com, you can hire cars with professional drivers verified by the marketplace, available at reasonable fares. It offers unmatched convenience, affordability, a broad selection of vehicles, and clear pricing. This empowers travelers to make informed decisions without unnecessary surprises or overpaying ahead of their trip.

Book your Ride on LocalsRide.com for transparent, tailored transfer solutions worldwide.

Looking Ahead

While the Maldives taking a seat on the UN Tourism Board may not rewrite the entire global travel map, it is undoubtedly a vital nod to the country’s tourism sector rising influence. Enhanced cooperation through such channels is expected to contribute modestly but meaningfully to better destination management and visitor experiences in South Asia and beyond.

For those interested in reliable travel options that reflect these advances, keeping pace with platforms like LocalsRide makes sense. It is a clear example of how technology and transparency meet to simplify airport transfers, city rides, and beyond.

In Summary

The Maldives Association of Tourism Industry’s election to the UN Tourism Board of Affiliate Members for 2026–2029 marks a proud moment for the region. Their involvement reflects growing tourism importance and commitment to global strategies promoting sustainability, cooperation, and responsible growth.

This appointment not only symbolizes recognition at the highest levels but also gradually helps improve the overall tourism ecosystem. Such evolution is beneficial for travelers seeking quality taxi and transfer services, airport rides, and safe, affordable car hires.

With LocalsRide.com empowering users to book private, cheap, or premium vehicles with exact fare transparency and vetted drivers, anyone can navigate their destination confidently. Whether planning airport pickups, city transfers, or day tours, the platform epitomizes the convenience and trust travelers increasingly expect in today’s global tourism landscape.