Category: Blog

The Ministry of Tourism has introduced safety standards to minimize accidents during watersports and other tourist activities in the Maldives. These guidelines aim to prevent incidents that have previously resulted in tragedies during water-based and beach-related excursions.

In a circular issued on Thursday to tourism service providers, the ministry announced plans to develop formal regulations for safer practices. Until then, the circular outlines safety measures that must be adhered to by councils, guesthouses, hotels, homestays, tourist vessels, and diving service operators.

Key safety measures include:

• Providing participants with safety information before any watersports activity.
• Ensuring all aquatic equipment meets safety standards and is used for its intended purpose.
• Conducting activities in designated zones specifically marked for each sport.
• Requiring tourists who cannot swim to wear life jackets during watersports.
• Monitoring weather conditions closely, with activities suspended during weather warnings or unsafe conditions identified by instructors.
• Using color-coded flags or surface balloons (white, yellow, orange, red, or green) to signal weather changes.
• Maintaining a means of communication between instructors and the aquatic center for emergency preparedness.
• Keeping a logbook of participants, including their names and identification or passport numbers.

The ministry emphasized the importance of these measures to mitigate risks for tourists, who are the primary participants in water-based and beach activities. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to enhance safety standards within the Maldivian tourism industry.

Coco Collection, a prominent Maldivian resort brand, has been celebrated at the 2024 Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards, with both Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu earning accolades for their exceptional luxury hospitality.

The Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards, renowned as the ultimate authority in luxury recognition, serve as a trusted guide for sophisticated travelers and lifestyle enthusiasts worldwide, particularly in India and the Middle East.

Coco Bodu Hithi, acclaimed for its romantic ambiance, has been awarded the title of Best Luxury Honeymoon Resort in the Maldives. This recognition underscores the resort’s outstanding service and its ability to create unforgettable experiences for couples seeking a serene getaway.

The resort’s appeal to diverse guests, including Indian celebrities like Mouni Roy and Surbhi Jyoti, demonstrates its ability to curate unique and memorable stays. Signature experiences such as the Sunset Cruise and the intimate Dinner Under the Stars in a private pergola exemplify the resort’s dedication to delivering personalized luxury.

Meanwhile, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, celebrated for its eco-conscious ethos, has been named the Best Barefoot Luxury Resort in the Maldives. This award highlights the resort’s steadfast commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, even 25 years since its establishment.

The resort’s dedication to ecological practices has also earned it recognition at the World Luxury Hotel Awards, where it received multiple accolades in key categories that align with its advocacy for sustainable tourism.

This winter, guests can bask in the Maldivian sunshine at Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu with the exclusive Discover Coco offers, featuring discounts of up to 40% on spacious, comfortable villas. For reservations, contact [email protected] and secure an extraordinary tropical escape.

Cruise liners have ceased operations in the Maldives due to increased costs resulting from the imposition of the Tourism Goods and Services Tax (TGST) on tourists. This change has significantly affected the operations of local agents who facilitate cruise line visits to the country.

According to regulations introduced under the previous administration, cruise tourists are required to pay TGST starting from their arrival date. Cruise operators are mandated to remit 16% of the total package price, including Maldivian destinations, as GST through local agents.

Mohamed Firaq, CEO of Inner Maldives and a representative for several cruise lines, explained that the Maldives has become a comparatively expensive destination. He provided an example to illustrate the disparity:

• A cruise liner carrying 1,500 passengers incurs approximately $80,000 in taxes to dock in the Maldives.
• In contrast, docking fees in Dubai are $28,000, while in Sri Lanka, they are $18,000.

“Cruise lines operate as businesses focused on minimizing costs. If the Maldives is significantly more expensive, operators will choose alternative destinations,” Firaq said.

In previous years, 20 to 30 cruise liners visited the Maldives annually, especially during the winter season. However, no arrivals are expected this year.

Firaq highlighted that neighboring countries, such as Sri Lanka and India, are reaping the benefits of this situation. Cruise liners are utilizing the port of Hambantota in Sri Lanka, while Cochin in India has seen increased activity.

The Maldives has also faced criticism for its high docking fees and inadequate services for cruise liners. Neighboring countries reportedly offer superior services at more competitive rates.

“This combination of high costs and subpar services has made the Maldives less appealing to cruise operators,” Firaq noted.

He attributed the issue to missteps in drafting TGST regulations. Initially, the intention was to exempt high-end yachts from TGST, but cruise liners were inadvertently included under the same rules.

Firaq stressed the urgency of amending these regulations before February 2025, as cruise itineraries for the following year are typically finalized by then.

“Taxation is not the issue, but it must be reasonable and aligned with the realities of the cruise industry and the competition from other destinations,” he concluded

Kuramathi Maldives has successfully renewed its Travelife Gold Certification, a prestigious global recognition that highlights the resort’s dedication to sustainability. Travelife is an industry-driven initiative that focuses on promoting environmental stewardship and social responsibility among accommodation providers and tour operators. This certification reflects Kuramathi’s unwavering commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR), demonstrated through various efforts such as protecting biodiversity, conserving marine ecosystems, adopting energy and water-efficient practices, and fostering partnerships with local communities to advance education and employment opportunities.

A significant component of Kuramathi’s sustainability framework is aligned with Travelife’s focus on employee welfare. The resort ensures ethical working conditions, fair wages, opportunities for professional growth, and compliance with health and safety regulations. Additionally, Kuramathi fosters inclusivity by providing equal employment opportunities and actively involving staff in sustainability initiatives. These practices cultivate a workplace environment where employees feel empowered and take shared responsibility for achieving CSR goals.

At the heart of Kuramathi’s sustainability strategy is its Eco Centre, led by a dedicated team including a Sustainability Manager, a Horticulturist, and an Eco Centre Coordinator. This team collaborates with the resort’s environment committee, which consists of representatives from different operational departments, to implement programs that promote environmental, social, and economic sustainability. By reducing environmental impact, enhancing community well-being, and advocating for human rights and fair labor practices, Kuramathi exemplifies responsible tourism, effectively balancing growth with conservation.

LUX* South Ari Atoll has been honored with the title of “Best for Families” in the Africa, Asia, and Middle East regions at the 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence. This prestigious accolade highlights the resort’s dedication to providing exceptional family-friendly experiences in the Maldives.

Condé Nast Johansens, a globally renowned luxury travel guide, is celebrated for its expert selection of the world’s finest hotels, restaurants, and travel experiences. The Awards for Excellence, recognized as one of the most esteemed honors in the hospitality industry, are determined by an independent panel of experts who evaluate accommodation quality, service standards, dining options, and overall ambiance.

John Rogers, General Manager of LUX* South Ari Atoll, expressed his pride in receiving the award, reaffirming the resort’s commitment to creating the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for families, ensuring memorable experiences for guests of all ages. The resort’s family-friendly accommodations, vibrant PLAY kids’ club, and diverse island activities exemplify this commitment.

This recognition strengthens LUX* South Ari Atoll’s reputation as a leading family travel destination. With unique experiences such as open-air cinema under the stars, coral planting workshops, snorkeling with whale sharks, and island treasure hunts, the resort continues to set a global standard for luxury family vacations

Maldives Tourism Faces Challenges Amid Regulatory USD Exchange Requirement

The Maldives’ tourism industry, still recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, is grappling with a significant challenge introduced by the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA). The new regulation mandates resorts to exchange USD 500 per tourist, a policy that has drawn widespread criticism from resort operators. They argue that this one-size-fits-all approach fails to account for differences in operating costs, guest profiles, and market positions, making it unfeasible for many resorts.

Resort Operators Advocate for Policy Revisions

Resort operators are urging the MMA to reconsider this fixed exchange requirement, citing operational and financial impracticalities. Most resorts generate the majority of their revenue in USD and face substantial USD outflows for operational expenses. As an alternative, they propose a percentage-based exchange requirement, such as 10% of USD earnings, which would align better with the financial realities of the industry.

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Financial Realities of Maldivian Resorts

Maldivian resorts primarily earn revenue in USD, with international payments accounting for the bulk of their income. Over 75% of resorts operate with an Average Daily Rate (ADR) below USD 800, making them particularly vulnerable to the financial pressures of the fixed exchange mandate. The majority of USD revenue is consumed by essential expenses:

• Taxes and Lease Rentals: 25%
• Salaries and Employee Costs: 20%
• Financing Costs and Loan Repayments: 20%
• Fuel Costs: 10%
• Food Supplies: 4%
• Maintenance: 5%
• Management Fees: 8%

These costs collectively consume over 90% of revenue, forcing resorts to acquire additional USD from external sources at premium rates to comply with the mandate. This adds financial strain, undermining liquidity, stability, and contractual obligations.

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Fixed USD Exchange Policy: A Financial Strain

The fixed exchange requirement is particularly burdensome for resorts with lower ADRs, as their per-guest income is comparatively lower. With over 90% of revenue allocated to operational costs, the mandate overlooks the diverse financial structures across resorts.

A percentage-based exchange model would offer a more equitable solution, reducing financial stress on smaller resorts while still fulfilling the MMA’s objective of increasing local currency liquidity. For example, a 10% earnings-based exchange requirement would be more sustainable, enabling compliance without compromising the financial health of resorts.

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Addressing Transparency Concerns in a Percentage-Based Model

Critics of a percentage-based policy may argue that resorts could underreport earnings to avoid compliance. However, with over 60% of bookings made via Online Travel Agencies (OTAs), the MMA can leverage OTA data to monitor nightly rates and occupancy. This ensures transparency and minimizes the risk of misreporting. OTA-based data provides an objective mechanism to enforce compliance effectively.

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Long-Term Implications for Tourism and the Economy

If the fixed USD exchange policy remains unchanged, its ripple effects could harm the Maldivian economy. Resorts may face rising operational costs, leading to higher prices, reduced reinvestment, and potential declines in service quality. This, in turn, could weaken the Maldives’ competitive position in the global tourism market, as rival destinations continue to enhance their offerings.

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A Balanced Solution: Percentage-Based Exchange Requirement

Transitioning to a percentage-based USD exchange model could address the MMA’s goals while safeguarding the financial stability of resorts. Key benefits include:

• Alignment with Financial Realities: Proportional exchange requirements reduce pressure on lower-revenue properties.
• Enhanced Compliance: With ADR data accessible via OTAs, earnings reporting becomes transparent and verifiable.
• Support for Sustainable Tourism: Lower reliance on expensive external USD sources allows resorts to maintain financial health and reinvest in quality improvements.

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Toward Financial Resilience in Maldivian Tourism

A collaborative approach between the MMA and resort operators is essential to develop a sustainable solution. By adopting a flexible, earnings-based model, the MMA can achieve its objectives without jeopardizing the operational stability of resorts. Such a policy would support local currency reserves while fostering long-term resilience in the Maldivian tourism sector.

Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort, an eco-friendly sanctuary nestled in the clear waters of the Shaviyani Atoll and a prestigious member of Leading Hotels of the World, is launching what may be the Maldives’ most ambitious luxury giveaway to date: the “Millionaire for a Month” competition. This exceptional social media contest offers travel enthusiasts the opportunity of a lifetime—a month of unparalleled luxury and adventure.

Participants are invited to submit their favorite travel memories or breathtaking Maldives-inspired photos on Instagram for a chance to win a 30-night escape, complete with seaplane transfers, at Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort. The winner and their guest will indulge in the resort’s exclusive villa offerings, experiencing the beauty and luxury of this 5-star paradise firsthand.

To enter, participants must follow @sirrufenfushi.maldives on Instagram and post a captivating travel memory or photo capturing the essence of the Maldives, along with the hashtag #SirruMillionaire. They should also tag a friend they would bring on this adventure and share the post in their Instagram Story, tagging the resort.

Open to all Instagram users aged 18 and over, this competition is unique in its inclusivity—no minimum follower count is needed. It celebrates creativity and passion, inviting anyone with a love for travel and storytelling to join.

The winner will enjoy a month-long stay in the finest accommodations at Sirru Fen Fushi, rotating weekly. The experience begins in the Sunset Deluxe Beach Villa, transitions to the Safari Tent Villa inspired by glamping, continues to the Sunrise Water Villa with its incredible overwater views, and concludes with a stay in the opulent Grand Water Villa. This luxurious experience includes gourmet dining, seaplane transfers, and a lineup of unforgettable activities like private beach dinners, dolphin cruises, spa treatments, snorkeling, and movie nights at the jungle cinema.

Adding a special touch, the winner will act as an ambassador for the resort, capturing and sharing their experiences throughout the stay. This role involves daily social media coverage, showcasing the allure of island life as an island millionaire.

More than just a holiday, this grand giveaway showcases Sirru Fen Fushi’s commitment to creating once-in-a-lifetime experiences. With this daring campaign, Sirru Fen Fushi reaffirms its position as a leader in world-class luxury and unforgettable adventures.

For full competition details and terms, visit www.sirrufenfushi.com/millionaire-for-a-month and explore #SirruMillionaire on Instagram

Bollywood celebrities Bipasha Basu and Karan Singh Grover recently selected OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, a luxurious private island resort in the Maldives, to celebrate their daughter Devi’s second birthday. Known for its stunning turquoise waters, immaculate beaches, and world-class hospitality, the resort provided a serene, intimate setting for the family to create cherished memories amidst the breathtaking island backdrop.

The family is currently enjoying a week-long retreat, where they are experiencing the resort’s diverse offerings—from relaxing spa treatments and exhilarating water sports to quality family time on the beach. Bipasha recently shared a touching photo from the trip, capturing a joyful moment with her family framed by the island’s picturesque scenery. The tranquil ambiance and curated services of OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI make it an ideal environment for rejuvenation and celebration.

Throughout their stay, Bipasha and Karan have been posting glimpses of their Maldivian holiday on social media, giving fans a peek into their special family moments and the island’s natural beauty. Their posts highlight the resort’s luxurious amenities and the memorable experiences they are enjoying together.

The resort offers a bespoke holiday experience called the ‘RESERVE™ Plan,’ designed to provide an all-encompassing, luxurious escape. This exclusive plan combines luxury villa accommodations, fine dining, premium beverages, personal butler service, and unique activities, making it a sought-after choice for international celebrities and high-end travelers.

The resort’s children’s club, which offers supervised activities and creative play, was a key factor for Bipasha in choosing this destination for Devi’s birthday celebration.

OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI promises refined elegance with spacious private villas offering either overwater or beachfront views, showcasing effortless luxury.

Dining at the resort is an immersive culinary journey, with guests enjoying international dishes crafted by renowned chefs using the finest ingredients. A particular highlight for the family was Saffron, the resort’s signature Indian-inspired restaurant, where they savored a traditional thali featuring vibrant Indian flavors, complemented by unique wines sourced globally.

Guests can also find rejuvenation at the ELE|NA Spa, where personalized treatments foster complete well-being. Adventurous activities include snorkeling, swimming, and diving, as well as private yacht charters for romantic sunset cruises or island picnics. With such memorable experiences, the charm of OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI is sure to remain with guests long after their stay

The Maldives has recently updated its regulations on tobacco and nicotine products brought in by tourists.

As of October 5th, customs authorities have removed prior duty concessions on these items, now requiring all nicotine products to be declared at customs. Initially, these new rules limited tourists to a maximum of 19 cigarettes, with any extra cigarettes confiscated as part of a strategy to reduce tobacco imports and enhance public health.

However, a subsequent circular from customs eased these restrictions. Under the updated guidelines, tourists may now bring up to 200 cigarettes.

The current import allowances are as follows:

• Tourists with a tourist visa can bring up to 200 cigarettes (or 10 packs).
• Alternatively, they may bring up to 20 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco.
• Any amounts exceeding these limits will be confiscated by customs and returned to the tourist upon their departure from the Maldives.

These new regulations also reflect recent changes to duty concessions on tobacco, shisha, and e-cigarette products—measures that had been postponed twice previously.

Further, as of October 1st, amendments to the Import Export Act have raised taxes on imported cigarettes and hand-rolled bidi. Starting October 15th, the Tobacco Control Act will also be updated to implement a ban on the import of vaping products and associated components.

While tobacco-related restrictions have tightened, the duty-free allowance for personal items brought by tourists has been increased. Tourists may now import personal items valued up to MVR 10,000 duty-free under the regulation, ‘Duty Exemption on Goods Imported by Tourists, Small Useful Goods, and Business Samples

Velassaru Maldives has launched the Velassaru Coral Project, a new initiative inviting guests to engage in marine conservation by supporting coral restoration and enhancing marine biodiversity. Through this immersive project, guests can actively participate in building an artificial reef, deepening their environmental connection during their stay.

As part of the project, guests have the option to purchase a coral frame, adorned with coral fragments collected and secured by Velassaru’s marine team. Each frame includes a personalized plaque, allowing participants to leave a lasting legacy in the Maldives. Over the following two years, guests receive biannual updates on the coral’s progress, complete with photos and videos of its growth.

Velassaru’s commitment to education ensures participants understand coral reefs’ critical role in sustaining marine life and supporting local communities. Although coral reefs cover only a small portion of the ocean floor, they are home to 25% of all marine species, providing shelter and food for fish, invertebrates, and other sea life.

Divers, both certified and novice, are welcome to explore the artificial reef near the Immersion Dive Centre, where professional guides provide insights into coral regeneration and the vibrant marine ecosystem flourishing around the reef.

A standout feature of this artificial reef is “The Dome,” a 4-meter by 6-meter structure located 10 meters below the water’s surface. Sunk on September 12, 2024, The Dome offers an accessible dive site for Velassaru guests to explore and help maintain. During dives, participants can monitor the corals’ health, adjusting fragments held by zip ties and fishing lines.

The Velassaru Coral Project also contributes essential data for coral research. Each dive at the artificial reef includes assessments of coral health, with records on coral color, size, and species. Regular monitoring includes checking water temperature and quality, as even a slight rise in temperature can cause coral bleaching. The team also watches for common coral diseases like white syndrome and pests that may harm coral health.

Occasionally, sharks are spotted near smaller reefs close to the artificial site, and Velassaru hopes for more sightings as coral and fish populations expand. These predators are crucial for maintaining ecosystem balance and supporting the surrounding reefs’ health and diversity.

All data collected from the Velassaru Coral Project will be shared with Coral Watch, a global database dedicated to coral health and conservation. Through this initiative, Velassaru guests contribute not only to the restoration of Maldivian reefs but also to coral research and preservation worldwide.

By involving guests in this unique, hands-on experience, Velassaru Maldives seeks to foster coral growth, promote marine biodiversity, and provide an educational experience that contributes to a sustainable future for the oceans.