Maldives open for Russians

On July 15, the Maldives will open for all tourists, including Russians. This was reported at a press conference by the president of the island state Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on June 23. The return to a full tourist life will be gradual.

Upon arrival, tourists will receive a free visa for 30 days, guests will not have to take a mandatory test or quarantine.

However, tourists arriving on the Maldives will have to observe social distance measures and wear masks. Passengers will also undergo thermal screening and will be sent to the airport clinic if they have symptoms of COVID-19.

An official document posted on the website of the Ministry of Tourism of the Maldives states that tourism will be restored in two stages.

So far, only the hotels, located on separated islands, have been opening since July 15.

“Yes, hotels on the Maldives will be opened in two stages. I think everything will be restored by the autumn,” said Dmitry Arutyunov, CEO of ART Tour operator.

As for prices, according to Dmitry Arutyunov, the prices for hotels will remain approximately at the level of last year, but, of course, there will be special offers to stimulate the tourist flow. “There is no doubt that the factor of deferred demand will work, which will contribute to the quick recovery of lost volumes,” says Dmitry Arutyunov.

The tourist flow from Russia to the Maldives, according to the results of 2019, increased by 17,5%, setting a record: the figures for the first time exceeded the best pre-crisis indicators of 2013.