LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Malta’s tourism sector has soared to new heights in early 2025, with official data showing an 18.3% year-on-year increase in tourist arrivals during the first two months of the year — a performance largely driven by expanded air connectivity and strategic access to key markets.
The National Statistics Office (NSO) confirmed that 404,463 tourists visited the island between January and February, up from 341,985 in the same period last year, setting a new record for Malta’s tourism industry. Tourist spending also surged by 28.8%, reaching €289.4 million, while guest nights grew by 16.6% to nearly 2.4 million. The average spend per tourist rose to €715, up from €657 in 2024.
The Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) attributed this success to deliberate enhancements in air travel connections and a stronger presence in high-performing markets, especially Poland, Ireland, and the UK. Notably, Malta is now connected to seven different airports in Poland — each offering significantly more capacity than last year — which has played a pivotal role in driving growth.
The winter introduction of Aer Lingus flights from Dublin was another game-changer, opening up a vital route to the Irish market during a traditionally quieter season. These “strategic air connectivity developments,” the MTA said in a statement, were instrumental in making Malta more accessible and attractive year-round.
February alone saw a record 210,305 visitors — a 24.2% jump from the previous year — while January brought in 194,157 tourists, reflecting a 12.6% increase.
The UK, Poland, and Italy continued to dominate as Malta’s top source markets, collectively accounting for nearly 47% of total tourist arrivals.
“These exceptional results are a testament to Malta’s enduring appeal and the effectiveness of our national tourism strategy,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Tourism Minister Ian Borg. “We are building a sustainable, year-round tourism economy that benefits our communities and showcases the very best of what Malta has to offer.”
His sentiments were echoed by MTA Chairman Charles Mangion, who highlighted the importance of market diversification and year-round destination promotion. “Our ongoing collaboration with airline partners and stakeholders is ensuring that Malta remains top-of-mind for travellers,” he said.
The surge in tourism comes as the government unveils its ‘Malta Vision 2050’ plan, which includes raising annual tourist numbers to 4.5 million over the next decade. With 2025 already off to a record-breaking start, Malta appears well on its way to reaching that ambitious target — bolstered by smart investments in connectivity and a broadened global reach.
-Foto MTA-
(ITALPRESS).
