Visa extensions to be granted for stranded tourists
Maldives Immigration has decided to extend the visas of tourists stranded in the country following flight cancellations caused by escalating tensions in the Middle East. Relevant government agencies are working to mitigate the difficulties faced by travelers due to these transportation disruptions, with the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) establishing a dedicated support center at the airport to assist affected passengers.
A tourist being served at Velana International Airport. | VIA | Velana Airport
The Maldives has decided to extend the visas of tourists who are unable to return to their home countries or depart the Maldives due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which escalated on the 28th of last month, has caused significant disruptions for travelers, leading to the cancellation of several flights.
In response to the situation, Maldives Immigration has announced its decision to extend visas for tourists facing travel difficulties due to current disruptions in the transportation network.
Maldives Immigration has announced the decision to extend the visas of tourists currently in the country who are unable to depart before their permits expire due to a lack of available travel arrangements.
Relevant government authorities are working to monitor the well-being of tourists stranded in the Maldives and are coordinating efforts to facilitate convenient arrangements for them.
The closure of airspace across several Middle Eastern countries due to ongoing conflict led to widespread flight cancellations on Saturday, leaving the international terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) heavily congested.
Aviators Maldives reported that 12 flights scheduled to arrive in the Maldives on Sunday have been canceled. Furthermore, Mohamed Firaq, CEO of Inner Maldives, stated on X that 14 flights destined for Velana International Airport (VIA) were canceled on Sunday, noting that these disruptions highlight the critical nature of the current situation.
To alleviate the difficulties faced by passengers due to flight cancellations, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has established a "Disruption Management Centre" at Velana International Airport.
