Maldives extends tourist visas amid Middle East flight disruptions

The Immigration Department has decided to extend the validity of tourist visas following disruptions to air travel caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Immigration said on Monday that the decision was taken in response to flight cancellations affecting tourists currently in the Maldives. Since Saturday, developments in the Middle East have led several airlines to temporarily suspend operations, disrupting travel for a large number of visitors.

As a result, Immigration has extended the validity of tourist visas for some foreign nationals who remain in the Maldives due to cancelled flights.

According to official figures, 17 flights from Gulf countries to the Maldives were cancelled on Monday alone. A further 19 flights were cancelled on Sunday. Authorities said more than 4,000 tourists have been affected by the cancellations.

The situation continues to be monitored by the relevant authorities.