Russia has become the leading tourist source market for the Maldives, as arrivals from India plummet amid a surge in COVID-19 cases in the country.
As per the latest statistics published by the Ministry of Tourism, Maldives has recorded 396,982 tourist arrivals so far this year. Of this, Russia occupies 22.4 percent of the market share, followed closely by India with 21.9 percent. Ukraine and Germany are third and fourth on the list, with 5.5% and 5.2% market share respectively.
The alarming rise in COVID-19 infections in India prompted the Maldives to tighten travel restrictions last week. Indian tourists are no longer permitted to stay in guesthouses and hotels located on inhabited local islands.
While they need to present proof of a negative PCR test, Indian tourists are still able to stay in resorts and liveaboards.
Effective from 3rd May 2021, all inbound travelers are required to present negative PCR test result, with the sample taken not more than 96 hours prior to departure to #Maldives. This includes travelers who have also completed the administration of their 2nd dose of COVID-19 vaccine.
Under the released order signed by the Health Protection Agency of Maldives on 30th April, this however, does not apply for children below 1 year of age. The negative PCR test result must be attached while completing Traveler Health Declaration form, which has to be submitted online via IMUGA (www.imuga.immigration.gov.mv), by all arriving passengers before arrival (but not exceeding 24 hours before arrival time).
Maldives reopened borders to all nationalities from 15th July 2020. All visitors are granted a 30-day free on-arrival visa with a confirmed booking for a stay at any registered tourist facility in the country. Maldives resorts and liveaboards continues to welcome tourists from all countries.
