New waves of Chinese tourists are expected in Maldives

The island nation of Maldives offers visitors a variety of activities, such as fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving. It has become one of the most popular destinations for Chinese travelers.[Photo provided to China Daily]

Mega will also offer free and discounted tickets to Chinese on social media and Air China will soon start direct flights from Southwest China's Chongqing.

Chinese are already the strongest force in the Maldives' pillar tourism industry.

"President Xi Jinping paid a state visit to the Maldives (in 2014) and encouraged Chinese tourists to travel in the Maldives, which has produced a positive effect on local tourism development," says Mohamed Haris, acting managing director of the country's tourism authority.