Like all countries in the world, the Maldives was impacted by COVID-19 and its flow on effect on global tourism. Thorough safety and hygiene standards and the country’s unique geography and relative isolation, however, have allowed it to resume its primary source of economy.
Since mid-last year, it has basically been business as usual in the Maldives – albeit with precautions in place – in the idyllic island nation. Some are even touting it as the travel industry’s poster child.
So, what does travel to one of the world’s most desirable destinations look like these days? If you dream of being on the next available flight to the Maldives, here’s what you need to know before you pack your bags…
The Maldivian government has advised that all tourists and short-term visitors must produce a negative PCR test result for COVID-19 upon arrival. The health document stating the negative PCR test result for COVID-19 must be in English and 72 hours prior to departure from their home country.
A COVID-19 safe tourism guideline has been issued by the Ministry of Tourism along with a certification program to uphold proper safety and hygiene standards.
Extensive measures have been taken by tourist establishments to ensure they are in line with these guidelines. Staff, for example, have been based on the island where they work, reached only by speedboat or seaplane.
On arrival in Malé, guests are flown by seaplane or escorted via speedboat to their resort with minimal contact. The Maldives’ signature “one-island-one-resort” concept means that visitors to the country are based in their respective resorts.
Having said that, split-stays are permitted between all tourist establishments that meet all compulsory requirements under the guideline approved by the local Health Protection Agency. Requests for approval of these split-stays should be submitted to the properties three days prior to the traveling date to facilitate arrangements.
Together, these unique arrangements make it easier for visitors to maintain social distancing, whilst enjoying a truly safe and secluded holiday.
ARRIVING IN THE MALDIVES:
All tourists will undergo non-intrusive temperature checks and screening on arrival into the Maldives. You may also be chosen for a random COVID-19 PCR test by Maldivian Health Authorities. This is a voluntary test and paid for by the Maldives government..
Tourists who present with COVID -19 SYMPTOMS, such as temperatures, coughing, sneezing, runny nose or shortness of breath on arrival will be isolated and have to undergo a PCR test (at own cost). You may be accommodated in a transit facility until your PCR results have been received..
If only one member of a group / family traveling together presents symptoms, all members of that family / group will be required to be tested (at own cost).
Wearing a face mask is compulsory from the plane to the resort and in transit, including at the airport and on seaplanes / boat transfers until you arrive to your resort villa.
If you have a history of contact with a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19 within the past 14 days and /or persons who have a fever or respiratory symptoms such as a cough, sore throat, shortness of breath within the past 14 days, you should not travel to the Maldives.
All tourists are required to wear facemarks at the airport, during domestic travel and in all public spaces.
All physical distancing guidelines are clearly marked with visible distance information and floor markings on passenger terminals. You are required to maintain a distance of at least 1 metre from other persons at all times. Hand sanitisation and hygiene facilities are also available throughout the airport.
TRANSFER TO YOUR RESORT
Travel to your resort is as per normal with a representative meeting you upon arrival and assisting you with your domestic flight or transfer.
All tourists are required to wear a face mask and to use hand sanitiser prior to boarding your seaplane, domestic flight or speedboat transfers.
All travellers must maintain a safe, physical distance of at least 1 metre from other persons at all times.
Guest are encouraged to download the ‘Track Ekee’ application to assist the government in contact tracing.
ON ISLAND AT YOUR RESORT
Each property is committed to providing peace of mind to guests so that you can relax and enjoy your Maldives experience.
Enhanced cleanliness standards reflected by the advice and guidance of the World Health Organisation, Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health authorities are among many new routines at resorts.
Temperature checks will be conducted upon arrival at your resort.
Frequent sanitisation of high touch surfaces and high traffic areas in public spaces and facilities will take place.
Strict food handling and sanitation guidelines and new service approaches at restaurants and cafes have been implemented.
Additional cleaning processes for daily housekeeping service during the stay and after departure and improved protocols around handling test items and laundry.Cleaning and sanitisation of spa and fitness facilities, treatment rooms and equipment. Additional deep cleaning of all surfaces as well as appointment only access to wet facilities.
Social distancing will be practised in all areas of the resort and dining transportation.
Guest can expect reduced contact at check-in, cashless payments and frequent sanitisation of keys and key cards.
Face masks and other protective clothing will be used by hosts and are available for guests too.
Hand sanitising stations or dispensers are placed strategically at all guest and host areas.
Please note: some resorts have varied testing requirements once on property. Please discuss with your Maldives specialist.