To enter the Maldives tourism, you no longer need a COVID-19 (PCR) test. Check with your airline ahead of time to see if any specific COVID-19 tests are required. A Traveller Declaration form must be completed 72 hours before departure to and from the Maldives. Unvaccinated COVID-19 travelers entering the Maldives under certain visa categories may still be subject to PCR testing and mandatory quarantine periods.
Overview of Maldives Tourism
As we gain knowledge more about COVID-19 and new versions are discovered, health advice is constantly changing. The rules and restrictions in place to prevent outbreaks can change rapidly. It is critical to check the rules in the destinations you are visiting and transiting through, as well as the requirements at the Australian border, on a regular basis. These may distinguish between states and territories.
Full Advice for Maldives Tourism
Political unrest and civil unrest
Protests and events attracting large crowds can devolve into violence.
Since February 2015, Malé has seen a spike in protests and demonstrations.
To be safe:
- Avoid large gatherings and protests.
- Obey local authorities’ instructions
Terrorism
Terrorist attacks in the Maldives are possible. Potential targets include:
- Government institutions, tourist areas, and other Western-popular destinations
- Several terrorism offenses have occurred since February 2020, including a stabbing attack on three foreigners in Hulhumalé, in which an Australian was injured. Other incidents include a bomb attack on a police motorboat in Laamu Gan in March 2020, and an incendiary device detonated in Malé in May 2021, injuring a prominent politician and innocent civilians.
Terrorism is a global threat.
Crime
Malé has a drug-related crime problem.
In urban areas such as Malé and Hulhumalé, gang-related violence, including knife crime, has increased.
Petty theft occurs on beaches as well as in hotel rooms.
To protect yourself from petty theft, do the following:
- Take only what you need.
- Keep valuables, including your passport, in a safe place.
- Keep an eye on local media for new security threats.
- Stay away from trouble spots
Adventure tours and activities
Transport and tour companies do not always adhere to safety and maintenance standards.
If you intend to participate in an adventure activity:
- Check to see if your travel insurance policy includes it.
- Before you book, check the operator’s credentials and safety equipment. Inquire about and insist on minimum safety requirements.
- Always use readily available safety equipment, such as life jackets or seatbelts.
- Use another provider if proper safety equipment is not available.
Natural disasters and Climate Change
The monsoon season lasts from mid-May to the end of November. Strong winds, rough seas, torrential rain, and flash flooding are all possibilities.
If a natural disaster or severe weather occurs:
- Keep your passport in a safe, waterproof place or carry it with you at all times (in a waterproof bag)
obey local authorities’ instructions - Keep an eye on the news and other sources
- Maintain contact with family and friends
- If your travel plans are disrupted, contact your tour operator.
- Tsunamis are possible in the Maldives. These are caused by earthquakes that are either nearby or far away.
In case you live near the coast, move to higher ground immediately if local authorities advise you to, or if you:
- feel a strong earthquake that makes standing difficult
- feel a weak, rolling earthquake lasting a minute or more see a sudden rise or fall in sea level hear loud and unusual sea noises
Don’t wait for official warnings like sirens or alarms. Check the local media once you’ve reached high ground.
Health
EXPAND ALL TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR HEALTH
Make sure you have adequate travel insurance.
Your policy should cover all out-of-country medical expenses, including medical evacuation. These expenses will not be covered by the Australian government.
You can’t afford to travel if you can’t afford travel insurance. This applies to everyone, regardless of how healthy and fit they are.
If you are uninsured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars for medical care up front.
Confirm:
- What activities and care are covered by your policy? Does your insurance cover you for the entire time you’ll be away?
Physical and mental well-being
Before you travel, think about your physical and mental health, especially if you have a medical condition. Consider whether you fall into a COVID-19-vulnerable category.
Consult your physician or a travel clinic to:
- Get a basic health checkup and find out if your travel plans will affect your health plan and what vaccinations you need.
- Do this at least eight weeks before your departure date.
Medications
Not all medications available in Australia over the counter or by prescription are available in other countries. Even if prescribed by an Australian doctor, some may be considered illegal or controlled substances.
If you intend to bring medication, make sure it is legal in the Maldives. Take enough legal medication for your journey.
Carry a copy of your prescription or a doctor’s letter stating:
What the medication is, how much you will take, and that it is for personal use
COVID-19 health risks
COVID-19 is still a threat in the Maldives.
The Ministry of Health website has more information on the Maldives’ COVID19 vaccination program. Consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including any local assistance that may be available. The Australian Government is unable to provide advice on the safety, quality, and efficacy of vaccines approved for use outside of Australia’s regulatory process.
Diseases transmitted by insects
In the Maldives, there is a risk of insect-borne diseases. These are some examples:
dengue
The Zika virus
chikungunya
Pregnant women are at risk from the Zika virus. For information on how to reduce your risk, consult the Australian Department of Health’s Zika virus bulletin.
If you’re pregnant:
- Consult your doctor about your travel plans.
- Consider postponing non-essential travel to impacted areas.
To avoid insect bites, take the following precautions:
- Make certain that your lodging is insect-proof.
- Use insect and mosquito repellent.
- Dress in long, loose, light-colored clothes.
Other potential health hazards
Waterborne, foodborne, and other diseases are prevalent. These are some examples:
hepatitis \rabies
Serious outbreaks do occur on occasion.
To keep yourself healthy, do the following:
- Boiling water or bottled water with intact seals should be consumed.
- Avoid using ice cubes.
- Salads, for example, should be avoided if they are raw or undercooked.
- If you have a fever or diarrhoea, seek medical attention.
Medical attention
There are few hospital services, including rescue and emergency services.
In Malé, there are two general hospitals. They provide general medical services as well as some specialized services. Malé has one private hospital that provides a broader range of services.
It can take several hours to travel from a resort island to a hospital.
The Maldives has five decompression chambers. In an emergency, it may take several hours to reach these. Dive within your comfort zone.
You may need to be evacuated if you become ill or injured. Medical evacuation can be quite costly.
