India takes 1st place for top tourist arrival markets of the Maldives

India has emerged as the top tourist arrival market of the Maldives, replacing the previous top market, Russia.

The latest statistics published by the Ministry of Tourism shows that as of 17 February 2021, 32,970 arrivals from India arrived in the Maldives, followed by 32,019 arrivals from Russia. Thus, the top position for source markets of the Maldives previously held by Russia, has been taken over by India. Furthermore, Ukraine took the third position with 10,178 tourist arrivals. The remaining top source markets include Kazakhstan, Romania, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Czech Republic and the USA. 

Tourists traveling to the Maldives must provide authorities with a negative PCR test upon their arrival at the holiday destination. The PCR test must include relevant details such as the name and address of the laboratory that performed the testing, result of the test, date of testing as well as name and signature of the issuing officer. It must be submitted to Maldives Immigration via its IMUGA platform (imuga.immigration.gov.mv) when filling out the Traveler Health Declaration.

Even after providing a negative PCR test, airport authorities may still be liable to subject passengers to screening or any other surveillance measures during the arrival process of travelers. Visitors that show symptoms of the coronavirus and any individuals traveling with such visitors will be tested at their own expense.

After borders reopened on 15 July 2020, all tourists will receive a 30-day free on-arrival visa with a confirmed booking to stay at any registered tourist accommodation in the Maldives.

Photo Credit: Nishan Ali / MIHAARU