By Andrea Romano
Aug 17, 2021
IF YOU’RE TRAVELING TO THE MALDIVES next year, be prepared to add one more expense to your budget.
Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has ratified a new amendment to the country’s Airport Taxes and Fees Act, which introduces a departure tax for any traveler leaving the Maldives beginning on January 1, 2022.
The departure tax is not only for tourists, but for locals as well, and is applicable for any airport in the country. Currently, there is an Airport Service Charge (ASC) in the Maldives, which will remain in effect until December 31, 2021, when it will be replaced by this new fee schedule, according to a statement given by the President’s Office.
The departure fee is applicable to each passenger leaving the country and will be made in U.S. dollars, according to Raajje, a news outlet for the Maldives. The fee schedule depends on the passenger’s residency and the class they are flying.
Residents of the Maldives will only need to pay US$12, as long as they are traveling in economy class. Meanwhile, non-residents must pay US$30 for economy class.
For business class, the fee goes up to US$60, for both Maldivian locals and tourists. First-class fees are US$90 for all passengers, regardless of residency. The fee is US$120 for those flying on private charter jets, according to Raajje. Airlines will be responsible for collecting these fees.
The new tax will be waived for passengers with diplomatic immunity and children under the age of two, according to the statement from the President’s Office.
Bathala Island, Maldives. Photo by Getty Images
In addition, passengers flying out of Velana International Airport (MLE), the country’s main hub, will need to pay a US$25 Airport Development Fee in addition to the new departure tax.
While it may not seem like a lot, it’s important to remember when booking your Maldivian vacation. And depending on your party’s size, the fees can get quite expensive.
With the new fees kicking in at the start of next year, there’s no time like the present. So, check out some of our recent Maldives stories for inspo for your trip:
I’ve Been to 21 Spas in the Maldives. Here Are 15 of my Favorites
We Took an Aqua-Immersion Trip to the Maldives and It was Pure Bliss
This Maldives Resort Has Its Own Covid-Testing Machine
Six Senses Is Offering a 10-Week Marine Biology Course for Kids
Snorkeling with Sharks in the Maldives
7 Bucket-List-Worthy Resorts in the Maldives
This is What It’s Like to Fly Into the Maldives During Covid (Video)
Why We See the Maldives in Your Future
