MATATO is the recognized apex body of the Maldivian travel trade — representing travel agents, tour operators and tourism partners with strength and integrity since 2006.
MATATO was founded to bring Maldivian travel entrepreneurs together under one roof — uniting, protecting and advancing their shared interests at a time when the industry needed a collective voice.
Nearly two decades on, that voice has grown into the recognised apex body of the Maldivian travel trade, representing travel agents, tour operators, hospitality partners and the wider tourism value chain. As we approach our 20th anniversary in 2026, we carry that history forward as the collective representative of one of the country's most important industries.
101 Reasons to Join MATATOThrough policy engagement, strategic partnerships and industry platforms, MATATO works to strengthen the business environment for our members while protecting the long-term integrity of Maldives tourism.
We serve as the authoritative voice of the Maldivian travel trade, working closely with government institutions, regulators and international tourism bodies.
As the official Maldives Chapter of PATA, we connect our members to global networks and secure representation at major trade exhibitions including WTM, ITB Berlin, ATM, SATTE and OTM - alongside close partnerships with the Ministry of Tourism, MMPRC, MIRA, MACL and national associations.
Advocacy sits at the heart of our work. We represent our members on taxation, regulation, compliance and market access - from policy reform to audit support - safeguarding local travel businesses while promoting fair competition and ethical practice.
Our Code of Conduct reinforces professionalism, accountability and industry-wide standards, protecting both our members and the reputation of the Maldives as a world-class destination.
As tourism evolves, so must we. MATATO actively promotes sustainability, youth empowerment and gender inclusion within the travel trade, supporting capacity building, education partnerships and environmental initiatives that build long-term industry resilience.
Our leadership reflects a commitment to diversity and balanced representation - because we believe a stronger industry is built through inclusion.
As we approach 2026 and our 20-year milestone, our focus is firmly on the future - strengthening digital trade platforms, expanding international roadshows, deepening policy engagement and building stronger global alliances, so Maldivian travel entrepreneurs can compete confidently in an increasingly complex global marketplace.
As MATATO moves toward its 20th Anniversary, we reflect with pride on our journey and with clarity on our purpose.
Over the years, MATATO has grown into the unified voice of the Maldivian travel trade — advocating for fair policy, strengthening global partnerships, and protecting local enterprises.
Our focus today is clear: to empower our members, enhance international connectivity, drive innovation, and ensure sustainable growth for the tourism sector. Together, we will continue to shape the future of Maldives tourism with unity, resilience, and vision.
Abdulla Ghiyas Riyaz
President, MATATO
Beyond representation, MATATO builds and delivers high-impact industry platforms that drive recognition, commercial engagement, dialogue and global positioning for the Maldives.
For nearly two decades, MATATO has stood beside the Maldivian travel trade — protecting its interests, elevating its standards and amplifying its voice.
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