HPA Extends Validity Period for Negative COVID-19 PCR Test of Tourists for 96 Hours

Tourism Industry is no doubt the cornerstone of the Maldivian economy. Consequent to the speedy spread of the deadly coronavirus in the country; alas, the government closed our borders for international tourist arrivals to contain the spread of the disease.  As a result, our economy was so massively effected, entailing the government’s decision on lifting the travel restrictions as soon as relevant health care authorities had declared it as safe. Accordingly, the borders were reopened on 15^th July whereas we have been granted the ‘Safe Travel’ stamp issued by World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).

The one condition which the government mandates from tourists arriving to Maldives is to evidence a negative result of a COVID-19 PCR test taken prior to at least 72 hours of the departing time from the destination the person would be arriving from. Ministry of Tourism (MoT) has announced via twitter today that the Health Protection Agency (HPA) has extended the validity period for 96 hours, making it an additional reason to visit Maldives.

As of 6^th October, 223 tourist establishments inclusive of resorts, hotels and vessels have resumed their operations which in combination capacitates more than 24,000 beds. A total number of 18,867 have arrived at Maldives starting from July 15^th till the end of September. The tourism industry is yet again flourishing at a steady pace and we the country hopes that this remains the same in upcoming days.