Search
Close this search box.

Situation Maldives: Maldives Gears Up To Combat Covid-19

Maldivespreparesforcovid_140320

As a country renowned for tourism, the coronavirus outbreak directly affects the economy of Maldives. The island nation has been keeping a close eye on the situation across the world and taking all the necessary precautionary measures to combat an outbreak.

The first cases of coronavirus in the Maldives were reported on 7th March 2020 from Kuredu Island Resort. As of today, there are 10 confirmed cases in Maldives, including the two cases from Sandies Bathala resort, two cases from Kuramathi Island Resort & Spa, and one from Anantara Dhigu Resort. Currently, there are 18 individuals in quarantine facilities, 09 in isolation and 02 in the hospital.

We have been taking appropriate measures and preparations against the virus prior to it being diagnosed in the Maldives. Government is using the available resources while following WHO protocols regarding the crisis. To overcome this situation, we need everyone’s help and we advice people to avoid public gatherings. We appreciate the efforts of everyone who has been working tirelessly day and night to stop the virus from spreading in the Maldives.”

Ibrahim Solih, President of Maldives
cabinetmeeeeting_140320
Photo: Cabinet discussions with president Ibrahim Solih

From the initial flare-up of the virus, the Maldivian government has been quick in following the protocols. As of now, passengers travelling to Maldives from China, Iran, South Korea, Italy as well as Bangladesh has been banned until further notice. Moreover, entry of passengers from all provinces and regions of Spain, passengers from Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia and Baden-Wuttemberg in Germany, as well as from Ile-de-France and Grand Est in France has been restricted too. Reference: Civil Aviation Authority website.

While the country has effective medical emergency from 12th March 2020, Health Protection Agency (HPA) has also imposed a temporary ban on tourists checking into guesthouses and hotels for a period of 14 days within the greater Male’ area. The ban will be effective from 00:00 hours of 15th March 2020. Guests who are already checked into hotels and guesthouses in the area can stay until their checkout date. Reference: Health Protection Agency.

Airports have been taking all the necessary steps to ensure public health, by conducting thermal imaging and hand held temperature checks, thorough disinfection and cleaning up throughout the day.

Airlines in Maldives have stepped up to help create the best protective environment for their passengers, by providing hand sanitizer to all passengers and routine sanitization and disinfectants of aircrafts. Moreover, flight attendants are provided with safety masks and gloves, and the check-in staffs are instructed and trained to deal with any situation with regards to the virus.

Photo: Video by Trans Maldivian Airways


Resorts have been monitoring the in-house guests as well as the staff while keeping close communications with HPA to be informed of the situation. Medical personals are available on standby for any emergencies on the islands.

In order to prevent an outbreak, authorities have taken advantage of the geographical isolation and created quarantine facilities away from capital, Male’. Initially Farukolhufushi, and then Villivaru which was completed just 10 days as the second isolation facility.

While speaking to media, Minister Of Tourism, Ali Waheed highlighted, that Villivaru facility will be extended to 100 beds facility and preparation of another facility in A.A Velidhoo, which was previously operated as a tourist resort.

With HPA informing the community of the situation on social media platforms and via text messages.

It looks like with the right measures and awareness along a cautious and preventive lifestyle, Maldives can minimize the impact of the virus and overcome it.

There’s been so much attention on one word.
Let me give you some other words that matter much more, and that are much more actionable.
– Prevention.
– Preparedness.
– Public Health.
– Political Leadership.
And most of all, people.
we’re in this together, to do the right things with calm and protect the citizens of the world. It’s doable.
I thank you.”

Tedros Adhanom, Director General of WHO

Feature Photo by Ali Hashim Smith

Ad - immaldives.com

Latest

Top Emerging Markets Driving Tourism Growth in the Maldives

Maldives Tourism Emerging Markets Driving Global Growth

The Maldives has long been a dream destination, known for its breathtaking beaches and crystal-clear waters. However, the tourism scene is evolving, with a new wave of emerging markets fueling its growth. While traditional markets like China, Russia, and the UK continue to play a significant role, it’s the rising influence of countries from Eastern Europe, South Asia, and the Middle East that is reshaping the tourism landscape. This shift signals a diversification in the Maldives’ visitor base, attracting a new generation of travelers from dynamic, fast-growing regions. Let’s explore the top emerging markets that are driving this exciting transformation in Maldives tourism.

Emerging Tourist Markets in Maldives as of February 2025

  • Poland: Poland entered the top 10 in February 2025 with 5,354 arrivals, a notable increase of 681 from the previous year.
  • Kazakhstan: With 2,385 arrivals in February, Kazakhstan maintained steady numbers, reflecting its growing interest in Maldives tourism.
  • Romania: February 2025 saw 2,857 arrivals from Romania, continuing the trend of increased engagement with the Maldives.
  • South Korea: South Korea’s arrivals reached 3,141, marking an increase of 410 compared to February 2024, signaling growing interest from this market.
  • United Arab Emirates (UAE): The UAE saw 747 arrivals, up from 676 in the previous year, continuing its steady growth.
  • Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka contributed 714 arrivals in February, reflecting the rising interest from the region.
  • Bangladesh: Bangladesh registered 2,490 arrivals, indicating a consistent presence in the Maldives market.
  • Serbia: Serbia showed positive growth with 904 arrivals, continuing its upward trend.
  • Turkey: Turkey had 1,096 arrivals in February, marking a modest increase of 66 from the previous year.
  • Egypt: Egypt showed a slight increase in arrivals, reaching 536 in February 2025, compared to 530 in February 2024.

The Maldives’ Expanding Global Reach

The rise of emerging markets is reshaping the Maldives’ tourism sector, with countries from Eastern Europe, South Asia, and the Middle East driving this shift. As a result, the Maldives is increasingly attracting visitors from regions that were once less prominent. This expansion reflects broader diversification, with new markets such as Poland, Kazakhstan, and Romania showing steady growth. Moreover, these countries are not only adding to the tourism numbers but are becoming integral in redefining the Maldives as a sought-after destination for travelers seeking luxury and exclusivity.

This transformation is supported by the Maldives’ strategic efforts to enhance accessibility, particularly through expanded direct flight routes and targeted marketing in fast-growing economies. Thus, these initiatives have allowed the Maldives to position itself as a top destination for an emerging generation of affluent travelers. With sustained growth from these new markets, the Maldives is solidifying its appeal to a broader global audience, ensuring that its tourism sector remains dynamic and poised for continued success.

Top 5 Markets for the Maldives (as of March 2025)

As of March 2025, the Maldives continues to see strong contributions from its traditional markets, with the top five markets based on arrivals being:

  • China – 69,010 arrivals
  • Russia – 59,636 arrivals
  • United Kingdom – 57,944 arrivals
  • Italy – 53,252 arrivals
  • Germany – 39,856 arrivals

These markets have long been key players in the Maldives tourism sector, consistently delivering high numbers of visitors and maintaining a dominant position. Nevertheless, the influence of emerging markets is steadily gaining momentum, further diversifying the destination’s visitor base. While the top markets remain strong, the growth of new regions highlights the Maldives’ evolving appeal and its ability to attract a more global audience, ensuring the tourism sector’s ongoing development.

A Diverse Future for Maldives Tourism

As the Maldives continues to attract a diverse range of travelers, the rise of emerging markets signals a bright future for the country’s tourism industry. With steady growth and the continued strength of traditional markets, the destination’s visitor base is becoming more diverse than ever before. Ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility and target new audiences ensure the Maldives will remain a leading global destination. As new markets continue to gain ground, the future of Maldives tourism looks increasingly dynamic and promising.

Feature Image: OBLU Select Sangeli

Ad - immaldives.com
No more posts to show