Maldives Departure Tax Set to Rise: What Travelers Need to Know

 Famous for its stunning white sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs, the Maldives is one of the most luxurious and expensive tourist destinations worldwide.  

Starting December 1, 2024, the cost of leaving this beautiful island nation is set to rise significantly. The departure tax for passengers flying from the Maldives will increase up to four times depending on the class of service.

Here are the details: Economy Class Passengers: $50 (previously $30) Business Class Passengers: $120 (previously $60) First Class Passengers: $240 (previously $90) Private Jet Passengers: $480 per person (previously $120) This tax applies to all international visitors, regardless of their age or nationality. 

 It also does not consider the flight distance, meaning passengers will pay the same fee whether flying to nearby Delhi or faraway London. The Maldivian Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) announced this tax hike in November, stating that the money will be spent on the maintenance of Velana International Airport (MLE), the main gateway to the Maldives. 

 For most travelers, this additional cost may go unnoticed, as the departure tax is usually included in airline ticket prices. Passengers will not need to pay it separately at the airport. However, airlines such as Beond, a luxury all-business-class airline, have issued reminders urging customers to buy tickets before November 30 to avoid paying higher tax rates. 

 Located near India, the Maldives is an archipelago of more than 1,000 islands and atolls, with a population of around 525,000. Most residents live in the capital city of Malé. Tourism is the Maldives' primary source of income, driven by its reputation as a luxury destination.  

The country is home to some of the world's most exclusive resorts, including The Ritz Carlton, Six Senses, and St. Regis, where stays often cost thousands of dollars per night. While the luxury tourism industry generates substantial revenue, the average Maldivian earns only about $12,000 annually, illustrating the gap between local incomes and the high-end tourism market.