New Conference Aims to Showcase Maldives to Wellness Travellers

A new annual event to promote the Maldives to wellness travellers and celebrate the natural beauty and tropical climate of the destination is announced for May 2026.

Organised by Island Healers (an imprint of Soft Atoll Maldives), in association with The Maverick Hotel, Maldives Wellness Experience and Travel Symposium is a two day event aiming to showcase the story of a destination from local, indigenous and international perspectives.

With the serene and scenic tropical life of Mundoo island serving as a backdrop, the event will bring together leaders in the fields of destination marketing, hoteliers, local and international practitioners in the wellness economy, entrepreneurs and media. It will be an ideal venue for retreat planners and leaders to discuss new trends and insights in the global and international wellness and travel industries.

Scheduled for 26, 27th May 2026, the event will see a full day conference followed by a tour with stop overs and excursions for indigenous and local cultural experiences. There will be workshops and experience sessions with practitioners of the healing arts and ‘elders’ in the wellness economy sharing their experiences.

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The Healings Arts in the Wellness Economy – Theme for 2026

The Maldives’ tourism sector is increasingly embracing the “healing arts” as a core component of its luxury offerings, moving beyond traditional sun-and-sea holidays to provide holistic wellness experiences. Resorts and spas across the archipelago are incorporating a wide range of therapies, blending ancient practices with modern science to cater to a new generation of health-conscious travelers.

Current applications of healing arts in Maldivian resorts include:

Traditional and Ayurvedic Medicine: Many spas offer authentic Ayurvedic treatments, including oil massages, specialized therapies and detoxification programs. Some resorts also feature traditional Maldivian medicinal practices, known as Dhivehi Beys, which use local herbs and rituals.
Holistic and Alternative Therapies: Resorts provide a diverse menu of services such as acupuncture, reflexology, cupping, reiki, and sound healing. These are often offered by resident or visiting practitioners from around the world.
Mind-Body Connection: The serene environment of the Maldives is an ideal setting for practices like yoga, meditation, and breathwork. Resorts offer various classes, from traditional to specialized sessions like aerial yoga and Watsu (aquatic bodywork).
Medical and Science-Based Wellness: High-end resorts are integrating more advanced, science-backed treatments, including cryotherapy, physiotherapy, and bespoke wellness programs tailored to individual health goals like stress management, digestive health, or restorative sleep.

The economic contribution of this wellness-focused tourism is significant and growing. According to the Global Wellness Institute, the Maldives’ wellness economy reached over $1.64 billion in 2023, accounting for nearly 25% of the country’s GDP. This segment is characterized by high-spending tourists, with wellness-motivated visitors spending an average of over $6,000 per trip. The spa industry alone contributed over $448 million in revenue in 2023.

To register your interest or receive the media kit for the Maldives Wellness Experience and Travel Symposium 2026 (An Island Hotel Conference), please email us or get in touch via WhatsApp or Mobile: +960 7353008, +960 7999008

All photos: Unsplash.com