A Quick Look at the Maldivian Tourism Industry as of 15th October 2020

Consequent to the rapid spread of the COVID-19 across the country, the Maldivian government put a temporary stop to our renowned tourism industry which resumed on 15th of July, after relevant health authorities had declared it safe for foreign arrivals. Since then, we are one of the only two destinations in the world to have completely lifted all travel restrictions. But, how is the tourism industry actually flourishing at present? Let’s have a quick look at the latest updates!

A press release from Ministry of Tourism (MoT) indicates that a total number of 26,720 tourists had arrived in Maldives effective of 14th of October. Out of it, the most number of tourist arrivals were recorded from Russia, amounting to 4817 people. Velana International Airport also saw its busiest day since border re-opening on 11th of October in which 39 runway movements and 108 seaplane movements were recorded. The steady increase in arrivals indicates recovery and continues to gather momentum in reinstating to the industry to its normal levels of operations.

To accommodate the growing number of tourist arrivals, government has permitted the resumption of operations of 15 guesthouses in 6 islands. In making travel procedures even easier for tourists, the health authorities had also been generous and have extended the validity period of a negative result of a COVID-19 PCR test tourists must evidence upon arrival from 72 hours to 96 hours.

For any person who is still paranoid about choosing Maldives as a holiday destination, in the light of all safety measures already in practice; we hold a ‘Safe Travel Stamp’ granted by World Travel and Tourism Council. Additionally, a ‘Compliance Officer Training Programme’ on the implementation of EIRFEC compliance standards in Maldivian tourist businesses is also underway to further guarantee your safety.

However, chances are always there of a positive transmission and for this reason a travel insurance has been launched specifically for tourists which will cover all costs incurred following a positive testing for COVID-19.

You may view the full report by Ministry of Tourism here for more details regarding the current situation at Maldives.