The Maldives is the small island nation whose economy heavily depends on coral reef tourism. Its clear lagoons, white beaches, abundant marine life, and reef diving attract visitors from around the world.
Tourism became an important Maldivian industry after resort development began in the 1970s. Many resorts were built on previously uninhabited islands, turning the country’s natural marine scenery into its central tourism product. Snorkelling, scuba diving, reef excursions, and encounters with manta rays and whale sharks are major attractions.
Coral reefs support the economy in more than one way. They create the lagoons and beaches that draw tourists, provide habitat for fisheries, and help protect low-lying islands from waves, erosion, and storm damage. Tourism and fisheries together account for a substantial share of national income and employment.
The answer is sometimes confused with Fiji, Indonesia, or the Bahamas, all of which also have important reef tourism. The Maldives is the clearest fit because its resort economy is exceptionally dependent on a narrow chain of coral atolls and the health of their surrounding reefs.