Maldives Welcomes First Cruise Ship Following Regulatory Changes

The Maldives welcomed the Italian-flagged cruise ship AIDA, carrying 2,139 tourists.

The vessel, which primarily caters to Swiss, Austrian, and German visitors, arrived in the Maldives from Muscat, Oman, on 8 December. This is the first cruise ship to visit the country since regulatory changes were implemented at the request of the Maldives Association of Yacht Agents (MAYA).

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A total of 2,139 passengers were granted immigration clearance as the first cruise liner visited the Maldives following regulatory changes. Our Seaport Division officers embarked on the en-route clearance process from Muscat, Oman, from December 4th to 8th, 2024. pic.twitter.com/wgrjqkjbvC— Maldives Immigration (@ImmigrationMV) December 9, 2024

The Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation (MMPRC) highlighted the potential economic benefits of AIDA’s visit. The influx of tourists is expected to boost a variety of local businesses, including restaurants, souvenir shops, local dhonis, guest houses, and retail outlets in Malé and Hulhumalé.

“This surge in tourism is anticipated to contribute significantly to the growth of the sector, enhancing the Maldives’ reputation as a premier cruise destination in the region,” MMPRC stated.

The arrival of AIDA also underscores the Maldives’ efforts to diversify its tourism offerings. MMPRC noted that, beyond benefiting local businesses, such developments are poised to strengthen foreign reserves and contribute to the country’s overall economic growth.

The cruise ship is scheduled to depart the Maldives on 9 December at 6 PM local time.