Maldives plans new visa categories to support tourism
Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim has announced that the government is working to introduce two visa categories aimed at supporting tourist arrivals to the Maldives.
The announcement was made on Sunday during a press conference held by a committee formed to address the economic impact of the conflict in the Middle East.
Speaking at the briefing, the minister said there has been a decline in tourist arrivals linked to the situation in the Middle East. He noted that around 30 per cent of visitors to the Maldives travel via airlines based in the region.
The minister said the government is exploring alternative travel routes to maintain arrival numbers. He added that discussions are ongoing with airline operators and tourism stakeholders.
Thoriq also stated that the government aims to increase the average length of stay of visitors. At present, tourists are granted a 30-day visa on arrival. He said measures are being considered to simplify visa extensions for visitors who wish to remain in the Maldives for a longer period.
As part of these efforts, the government is considering the introduction of a Remote Worker Visa and a Content Creator Visa.
“We are exploring ways to enable remote workers to base themselves in the Maldives. Increasing the number of remote workers and content creators will support occupancy of guesthouses,” the minister said.
He also stated that the government plans to regulate and promote sports fishing and big-game fishing. The minister noted that the global market for these sectors is valued at approximately $7.2 billion. He added that opportunities for technical and recreational diving will be expanded.
The minister further said that work is ongoing to improve operations for superyachts and liveaboards. Other areas under focus include the development of halal tourism and the promotion of education and research tourism.
