The Maldives Immigration has announced an extension of tourist visas for visitors experiencing travel difficulties due to the ongoing unrest in the Middle East. According to Maldives Immigration, the conflict has caused significant disruptions to the regional aviation network since February 28, leading to the cancellation of several flights operating to and from the Maldives. Consequently, as many tourists currently in the country are unable to arrange departure before their visas expire, the government has decided to extend their tourist visas.
The government is actively monitoring the situation of stranded tourists and is working to facilitate necessary arrangements for their convenience. Since the onset of flight cancellations, authorities have assisted tourists in returning to their respective resorts or guesthouses. While some travelers have opted to reschedule their tickets and seek alternative flights—a process being facilitated by the relevant authorities—others chose to remain at the airport. To accommodate these passengers, temporary facilities have been established at the former domestic terminal.
In response to the closure of significant portions of Middle Eastern airspace, dedicated service counters for affected airlines have been set up at the Velana International Airport (VIA) domestic terminal. Data released by the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) indicates that on February 28, a total of nine flights were cancelled, affecting 1,716 passengers. The disruptions escalated yesterday, with 19 flight cancellations impacting approximately 3,530 passengers.
