World's most beautiful island raises exit fees for foreign travelers

By Hoang Vu December 2, 2024 | 07:05 pm PT

Tourists disembark from a seaplane at a resort in Baa Atoll, Maldives, September 2023. Photo by AFP

The Maldives, renowned for its white-sand beaches and luxury resorts, has increased its departure tax for travelers flying out of the country, effective Dec. 1.

Foreign passengers flying economy class now face a tax of US$50, up from $30, while business-class travelers must pay $120, up from $60, according to CNN.

First-class passengers are charged $240, compared to the previous $90, and private jet travelers must pay $480 per person, up from $120, as stated on the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority's website.

Certain groups are exempt from the tax, including passengers with diplomatic immunity, transit passengers, and children under the age of 2, Fox News reported.

Revenue from the increased tax will be used for the maintenance and upkeep of Velana International Airport, the Maldives' primary transit hub.

In July, the Maldives, a collection of more than 1,000 islands in the Indian Ocean—was named the world's most beautiful island by readers of Travel + Leisure magazine as part of this year's World's Best Awards.

Tourism remains the Maldives' largest source of foreign exchange, with the country targeting 2 million arrivals in 2024.