We had the opportunity to speak with Mohamed Shamaan Waheed, the Controller General of Immigration, as he described his vision for the critical role of immigration in promoting tourism and providing a memorable experience for visitors to the Maldives.

In the interview, Shamaan expressed a deep sense of responsibility for border security, recognising the Maldives’ reliance on tourism as a key economic driver.

As the prospective head of Maldives Immigration, could you share your vision for the role of immigration in promoting tourism and ensuring a positive experience for visitors in the Maldives?

When I was entrusted with the position of Controller General of Immigration, I understood the profound responsibility that came with it, given that safeguarding the borders of the Maldives stands as a pivotal role within the organisation. The Maldives, renowned for its breathtaking beauty, holds tourism as the cornerstone of the economy.

As the forefront gatekeepers, we take pride in providing a warm and hospitable welcome to every tourist arriving in the Maldives. Our commitment to hospitality is evident, even with the smiles of our officers and the positive vibe created among visitors.

In fact, in 2021, Immigration commenced a loyalty program exclusively for tourists. This is the first time immigration has initiated such a tourist-related programme, and we are keen on bringing it to the next level with changes while providing exclusive rewards to members as well as great opportunities for our partners.

Thus, our approach strikes a harmonious balance between warmth and diligence, making the Maldives an exemplar in providing a secure and delightful experience for all who choose to explore our shores.

How do you plan to foster effective communication and collaboration with other government agencies, tourism boards, and private sector partners to create a seamless and welcoming environment for tourists in the Maldives?

We have a close relationship with other government agencies. We have been discussing more collaborations with the Ministry of Tourism, MMPRC, MACL, and other tourism boards and private sector parties.

Coordination, collaboration, and cooperation are the keys. Our goal is to streamline immigration clearance, ensuring a seamless border experience for visitors. Even with various limitations, our relentless efforts are geared towards welcoming our visitors more conveniently. Opening of the Velaana International Airport terminal is very promising, with the increased number of counters for border clearance.

As of right now, on arrival, there are 25 immigration counters and 3 E-gates, which is expected to be increased to 28 counters with 7 E-gates. Likewise, for departure from 15 counters and 2 E-gates, it is to increase to 20 counters and 6 E-gates. We are steadfast in our commitment to providing a positive and efficient experience for all who choose the Maldives as their destination. I look forward to working with the related stakeholders to make it happen.

Can you discuss how you would leverage technological advancements to streamline immigration services and enhance the overall tourist experience?

In the realm of delivering efficient services, the pivotal role of technology cannot be overstated, particularly in our contemporary world, where online accessibility and convenience have become the norm. During the last few years, immigration services have also undergone a transformative shift in technological advancement. Our innovative IMUGA platform stands as a testament to this progress, now reaching an impressive monthly user base of over 12 million. Notably, the ‘Traveller Declaration’ form, a vital component of our system, is seamlessly processed through this platform, enhancing both efficiency and accessibility for travellers.

The ultimate goal is to facilitate a seamless entry and exit experience for all travellers. This strategic initiative aligns with our commitment to harnessing technology not just for the sake of modernisation but to enhance the overall quality and efficiency of immigration services. As we continue to evolve in this technological era, our pursuit remains centred on creating a more responsive, user-friendly, and intelligent immigration system for the benefit of all those who pass through our borders.

How would you enhance the efficiency of immigration procedures while maintaining security standards?

In navigating the right balance between facilitation and security, our approach revolves around the strategic integration of cutting-edge technology and the adoption of industry best practices. Embracing new technological advancements allows us to enhance the efficiency of our processes while fortifying our security measures.

The commitment to ongoing training and the incorporation of innovative technologies underscores our dedication to maintaining a dynamic and adaptive stance in the ever-evolving landscape of Maldives Immigration. Thorough measures are in place to examine all necessary documentation, ensuring that the safety and well-being of our nation remain paramount.

How would you design immigration processes to provide luxury travellers with a premium and efficient experience without compromising security?

To elevate the immigration experience for luxury travellers, we currently provide exclusive clearance during arrival and departure. This ensures a swift and tailored process, acknowledging the unique needs of luxury travellers. 

Looking ahead, we hope to implement even more sophisticated and individualised services at the new terminal at Velaana International Airport, which is guided by the vision of H.E. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.