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The Maldives, with its endless stretches of white sand beaches and sparkling coral reefs, is one of the world's most expensive holiday destinations. This paradise on earth has just announced an increase in the "price to leave," specifically, from December 1st, the exit fee for tourists flying out of the country will increase up to four times.
Departure taxes vary for each passenger, based on the class of airline they book to fly out of the Maldives. The Indian Ocean island nation charges economy class passengers $50 (up from $30 previously), business class $120 (up from $60), first class $240 (up from $90), and private jet passengers $480 per person (up from $120).
The Maldives, with its endless stretches of white sandy beaches and sparkling coral reefs, is one of the world's most expensive resort destinations.
This departure tax applies to all non-Maldivesian travelers – regardless of age or passport, and also regardless of flight length or duration. For example, travelers will pay the same tax for a 4-hour flight to Delhi or an 11-hour flight to London.
The Maldives Internal Revenue Service (MIRA) announced a tax increase in November. According to the MIRA, this tax revenue will be used for the maintenance and upkeep of Velana International Airport – the country's main transit hub. Some tourists may not be aware of this new fee. These fees are usually added to the airfare, so travelers don't have to pay cash at passport control.
Departure taxes are applied at different rates per passenger, based on the class of airline service they book to fly out of the Maldives.
According to CNN, tourism is the most profitable industry in the Maldives, but the country has struggled to balance the money earned from international luxury tourists with the needs of its citizens. Also according to Travel Tomorrow, the Maldives implemented a departure tax from January 2022, applicable to all air passengers except those with diplomatic immunity, transit passengers, and children under two years old.
Airlines are responsible for collecting fees for scheduled flights, while airport operators collect fees for charter flights and private jets.
