Discover the Best Routes to Reach the Maldives: A Comprehensive Guide to Connecting Flights from Major Cities

Are you planning a trip to the Maldives? Finding the best connecting flights from your city can save your time, money, and hassle. Whether you’re travelling from New York, London, Sydney, or any other global hub, this guide will help you find the best routes, airlines, and layover options. This way, you can ensure your journey to the Maldives is as smooth as possible!

As the Maldives has been a renowned prime travel destination, the country attracts tourists from all over the world. The destination is particularly popular among honeymooners, luxury travellers, and diving enthusiasts. With this, choosing the right flight to the Maldives is crucial for ensuring a pleasant travel experience. As the island nation is remotely located, most travellers will need to take connecting flights from major cities. By planning your journey carefully and selecting the best routes and airlines, you can minimise travel time and maximise comfort. This will allow you to start your Maldivian adventure refreshed and relaxed.

Top Departure Cities and Connecting Routes to the Maldives

Connecting flights to Maldives from New York (JFK/EWR)

If you’re flying from New York (JFK/EWR) there are three airlines that we would recommend taking. You can choose to fly with either Emirates, Qatar Airways or Etihad Airways. All three airlines are known for personalised service, comfort, as well as amazing deals if your trip is planned and booked ahead of time. Additionally, these airlines also frequently connect to the Maldives, giving you more flights to choose from. The typical route from New York includes layovers at Dubai, Doha, or Abu Dhabi. All three of these airports are also known for luxury and comfort, meaning your layover won’t be a hassle.

Flights to Maldives from London (LHR/LGW)

From London (LHR/LGW) you can explore flights from British Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines. For this connection, the typical route includes London to Dubai, Doha, or Instanbul. Just like the New York flight choices, these flights are also premium choices for long flights. With multiple daily flights, travellers going to the Maldives can also get convenient layovers and amazing amenities.

From Sydney (SYD) to the Maldives

Connecting from Sydney to the Maldives? You can fly with Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, or Etihad Airways. With the typical route connecting you from Sydney to Doha, Singapore or Abu Dhabi to Male’ you are sure to have a comfortable journey. In addition to the efficient routing, travellers can also expect comfortable long-haul options from these airlines.

Connecting From Tokyo (NRT/HND) to Maldives

For the best connection from Tokyo, you can fly with either Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, or Qatar Airways. With these airlines, you can connect to the Maldives easily through layovers in Singapore, Hong Kong, or Doha. With amazing airlines and comfortable layover destinations, travellers can be assured of high service quality as well as more manageable layovers.

From Dubai (DBX) and Other Main Connecting Hubs

Dubai is arguably one of the best cities to connect to the Maldives. This key hub for travellers connects you straight from Dubai to the Maldives. In addition to getting direct flight options, travellers can also expect minimal layovers and top-notch services. In addition to Dubai, this option is also available from Singapore as well as Malaysia!

Key Airlines for Connecting Flights to the Maldives

There are a few key airlines that travellers choose for amazing connecting flights to the Maldives. This includes:

Emirates: Extensive network and premium service.
Qatar Airways: World-class service and convenient layover options in Doha.
Singapore Airlines: Award-winning service and efficient routes via Singapore.
Etihad Airways: Luxury service and layover benefits in Abu Dhabi.

Tips for a Smooth Journey

Booking Strategies
- Use flight comparison tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights.
- Consider booking directly with airlines for better support and flexibility.
Layover Considerations
- Choose layovers that offer lounge access or sightseeing opportunities.
- Ensure sufficient layover time to avoid missed connections.
Travel Essentials
- Pack a travel pillow, eye mask, and other comfort items.
- Stay hydrated and move around during long flights.

The Maldives has long been known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious overwater villas. However, it is the country’s growing emphasis on wellness that has recently captured the attention of Forbes Travel Guide. As a result, the Maldives earned a spot in their coveted Top 12 Destinations for 2025. While the Maldives has always been a dream destination for relaxation, it now offers much more—transformative wellness journeys that attract travelers from around the globe. So, what exactly makes the Maldives stand out in 2025? Let’s explore what Forbes found so compelling.

Why Forbes Chose the Maldives

As global travel trends evolve, wellness tourism is rising in popularity. Forbes notes that more and more travelers are seeking remote destinations that offer the perfect balance of relaxation and rejuvenation. The Maldives, with its peaceful surroundings, is a prime example of this shift. Moreover, with a growing number of luxury wellness resorts, the Maldives is at the forefront of this travel trend.

Forbes highlights how the Maldives combines its natural beauty with holistic wellness programs. They specifically mention resorts like Joali Being and Velaa Private Island as key players in this movement. These resorts offer much more than just a place to stay—they create transformative experiences that allow guests to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with their well-being. Whether it’s through movement, nutrition, or mindfulness, these wellness programs go beyond the typical spa treatment. In doing so, they encourage true personal growth and rejuvenation.

Joali Being: The First Wellbeing Island of Its Kind

Joali Being, the Maldives’ first wellbeing island, offers a transformative journey centered around the Four Pillars of Wellbeing: Movement, Nutrition, Sleep, and Emotional Balance. Rooted in nature’s abundance and ancient wisdom, the resort tailors wellness experiences to individual goals. Whether it’s achieving hormonal balance or mental clarity, Joali Being has something for everyone. Additionally, facilities like the Hydrotherapy Hall and Discovery Sound Path complement the holistic experience. As a result, guests leave feeling revitalized. Combining modern science with ancient healing practices, Joali Being stands as a leader in the realm of transformative travel.

Velaa Private Island: A Cutting-Edge Wellness Retreat

Velaa Private Island takes wellness to new heights with its recently unveiled Velaa Wellbeing Village. The village offers services ranging from Ayurvedic and osteopathic treatments to tailored fitness and nutrition programs. At the heart of the Velaa Wellbeing Village is the Eveylaa center, which blends traditional healing with modern wellness practices. This provides a sanctuary for guests seeking holistic health. The Velaa Academy by Olazabal also offers the perfect space for yoga and Pilates enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Faiy restaurant, nestled in a lush garden, serves mindful, vibrant meals. These dishes nourish both the body and the spirit. Velaa Private Island is a destination where physical wellness meets spiritual nourishment, solidifying its place as a premier holistic retreat.

The Maldives as the Ultimate Wellness Escape

Forbes Travel Guide’s decision to name the Maldives in its Top 12 Destinations for 2025 highlights the growing appeal of remote, wellness-focused locations. As wellness continues to become a top priority for travelers, the Maldives stands out for its unwavering commitment to promoting long-term well-being. From the peaceful overwater villas to the innovative wellness facilities, the Maldives offers a rare combination of luxury and rejuvenation. Therefore, it makes the ideal destination for those seeking a transformative escape.