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Maldives, the coral island nation known as the world's top resort paradise in the Indian Ocean, has just officially become a global pioneer in implementing a historic ban on tobacco products based on generational criteria.
Under the new regulations, from the beginning of November, this country officially banned smoking by generation. This can be understood as a breakthrough move, making Maldives a pioneer country to apply a law banning smoking based on date of birth criteria.
With this decision, Maldives becomes the only country to apply a generational tobacco ban.
Under the new regulations, any individual, including international tourists, born on or after 1 January 2007 is prohibited from purchasing, using, or selling any tobacco products throughout the country. This means that if you are part of this generation, your holiday in the Maldives must be completely smoke-free.
The idea was launched by President Mohamed Muizzu in early 2025 to “protect public health and promote a tobacco-free generation.”
The initiative, launched by President Mohamed Muizzu in early 2025, has the lofty goal of “protecting public health and creating a tobacco-free generation.” For the Maldives’ high-end tourism industry, which accounts for more than 30% of the country’s GDP, this underscores the commitment to a clean and welcoming resort environment. Retailers in resorts and on inhabited islands must adhere to strict age verification requirements before every transaction.
The ban applies to all forms of tobacco. Retailers will have to verify age before selling.
An extremely important warning for all travelers, regardless of age: Maldives maintains a complete ban on e-cigarettes and related products. Importing, selling, possessing or using e-cigarettes is strictly prohibited. This is something travelers should take special note of to avoid unnecessary trouble during their trip.
Selling tobacco products to underage people will result in a fine of 50,000 rufiyaa, equivalent to $3,200, while using a vape device will result in a fine of 5,000 rufiyaa, equivalent to $320.
Failure to comply with the new regulations will result in significant financial penalties. Travelers who violate the ban on e-cigarettes could be fined up to 5,000 rufiyaa (about $320). Selling cigarettes to underage people under the new generation regulations could even result in a fine of up to 50,000 rufiyaa (about $3,200).
Tourists need to pay attention to new regulations when coming to this "tourist paradise".
Although some countries like the UK are considering a similar ban, and New Zealand passed it but later repealed it, the Maldives is currently the only country in the world to have consistently enforced the law.
Therefore, before setting foot in this tourist paradise, all visitors should carefully study the new rules to ensure a complete trip, comply with the law and avoid unwanted troubles.
