New research takes a deep dive into the Maldives’ wellness economy and shows huge momentum in wellness tourism sector
The Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the leading non-profit research organization for the global wellness industry, has announced a strategic collaboration with JOALI BEING, marking the Maldives as the 11th country to be featured on GWI’s Geography of Wellness platform. JOALI BEING, which opened in 2021, is a pioneering wellbeing resort, built around the principles of biophilic design and focused on delivering transformative, holistic wellness experiences.
As an island economy, the Maldives has become a premier destination for luxury wellness tourism and spas. The country’s wellness economy is currently divided into 2 major segments: wellness tourism, valued at $1 billion after a remarkable annual growth rate of 35.4% from 2022 to 2023, and the spa sector, valued at $448 million, with a striking 63.7% growth rate over the same period.
“Thanks to this collaboration with JOALI BEING, new, in-depth data on the Maldives’ position within each sector of the $6.3 trillion global wellness economy is now available to stakeholders looking to invest in the country’s burgeoning wellness tourism and spa industries,” said Susie Ellis, GWI’s chair and CEO. “By sponsoring the Geography of Wellness report, JOALI BEING is helping shape the future of wellness tourism in the region, and empowering the Maldives to capitalize on the rising demand for wellness travel, ensuring the country remains competitive in the rapidly evolving wellness tourism sector.”
“JOALI BEING is proud to partner with GWI to further elevate the Maldives as a global leader in wellness tourism,” said Özgür Cengiz, global director of wellness development at Gürok Tourism Group, which operates JOALI BEING. “The Maldives has long been synonymous with luxury and natural beauty, and through our collaboration with GWI, we are integrating data-driven wellness insights to refine and redefine its global appeal. By aligning our offerings with emerging trends like nature connection, eco-wellness, and transformative travel, we are crafting experiences that not only attract high-value travelers but also promote sustainability and community development.”
Maldives: An Emerging Wellness Destination
The Maldives, spanning 1,192 islands across 26 atolls, is a quintessential island paradise known for its jewel-like islands, white sands, turquoise waters and luxury wellness resorts. Visitors will find nature-centered wellness experiences, including vibrant coral reefs—home to sea turtles, manta rays, and whale sharks—forming one of the world’s richest marine ecosystems.
The Maldivian way of life emphasizes a deep connection to nature, with a diet rich in tropical fruits, herbs, and fresh seafood promoting holistic wellbeing. Environmental sustainability remains a priority, with government-led efforts to protect coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds, ensuring that tourism coexists harmoniously with the environment.
Traditional Maldivian Medicine: Dhivehi Beys
Dhivehi beys, the Maldives’ ancient healing tradition, combines indigenous plant-based remedies with global influences to restore balance in the body. Using natural herbs, it emphasizes harmony among the body’s “humors” of hot, cold, and dry.
Recognizing its cultural significance, the government is actively integrating Dhivehi beys into tourism, allowing visitors to experience this unique tradition alongside the Maldives’ natural beauty.
Download the Maldives Wellness Economy Report
The Global Wellness Economy: Maldives provides critical data for industry stakeholders and is available for free download here.
About the Global Wellness Institute
The Global Wellness Institute (GWI), a nonprofit 501(c)(3), is considered the leading global research and educational resource for the global wellness industry and is known for introducing major industry initiatives and regional events that bring together leaders to chart the future. GWI positively impacts global health and wellness by educating public institutions, businesses and individuals on how they can work to prevent disease, reduce stress and enhance overall quality of life. Its mission is to empower wellness worldwide.
About JOALI BEING
Opened in 2021, JOALI BEING is the first wellbeing island of its kind in the Maldives, offering personalized and transformative experiences focused on self-discovery and renewal. With a design inspired by biophilic principles, the resort integrates nature into every aspect of its offerings, providing guests with the ultimate sanctuary for wellness and rejuvenation. The resort features 68 exclusive villas, ranging from beach to water villas, and offers a wide range of wellness therapies and services, from hydrotherapy to ancient healing practices. The resort’s distinctive approach to wellness, combining Eastern and Western philosophies, ensures that every guest receives a personalized, transformative experience in one of the world’s most beautiful settings.
Source; GWI
