Maldives has restricted the entry of travellers from South Asia, with exceptions provided for tourists.
A circular signed and issued by Director General of Public Health Maimoona Aboobakuru said the Maldives has tightened restrictions on travellers from South Asia. The restrictions ban work permit holders from the South Asian countries and the region from the Maldives from May 9 until announced otherwise.
Although travellers from South Asia are banned entrance to the Maldives, tourists can still enter the country. However, tourists are also banned from visiting inhabited islands. HPA has ordered the law enforcement authorities to ensure the measures are followed.
It is believed the ban on travelers is due to a new strain of COVID-19 spreading in the region. The situation of COVID-19 has been worsening in the Maldives.