The Maldives — archipelago, paradise, icon of luxury. For decades, its white sands and turquoise lagoons have lured the world’s travellers, with Indian tourists forming the foundation of its post-pandemic boom. Yet, not very long ago, a diplomatic spat with India threatened to unravel its greatest success story. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi sets foot on Maldivian soil now, the entire region watches: can this reset patch up old wounds and bring back the lifeblood of Maldivian prosperity?

The economic importance of tourism to the Maldives is almost impossible to overstate. It accounts for more than a quarter of GDP and underpins livelihoods for tens of thousands. In recent years, Indian tourists—who overtook even the Chinese in arrival numbers – were the engine of the industry. But at the start of 2024, that engine sputtered.

What sparked the downturn? Sometimes, all it takes is a tweetstorm. After PM Modi visited Lakshadweep – India’s own picture-perfect islands – Maldivian officials responded with a cascade of undiplomatic remarks, some laced with insult. The reaction in India was swift and nationwide. Major travel sites suspended bookings. Indian celebrities, travel influencers and ordinary citizens alike amplified a call for a #BoycottMaldives campaign, redirecting attention – and crucially, holiday budgets – towards........

© News18