Maldives to hike exit charges for tourists: Check updated costs for all classes

New Delhi: Picture this – you’re stretched out on a Maldivian beach, the sun’s golden rays gently warming your skin as the soft rhythm of turquoise waves rolls in and out. It’s one of those rare, perfect moments when everything feels just right—like the world has slowed down just for you. But here’s the catch—starting December 1, 2024, leaving this little slice of paradise is going to cost a bit more.

The Maldivian Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) recently announced plans to raise exit fees for travellers. The extra money will go toward maintaining Velana International Airport, the bustling gateway that connects this dreamy destination to the rest of the world.

Here’s what’s changing: if you’re flying economy, you’ll see the exit fee rise from Rs 2,532 to Rs 4,220. Business-class travellers will see an even steeper hike, with fees climbing from Rs 5,064 to Rs 10,129. And for first-class passengers? Brace yourselves for a leap from Rs 7,597 to Rs 20,257. But the biggest shocker is reserved for private jet flyers, who’ll now have to cough up Rs 40,515, up from Rs 10,129. Ouch! That’s roughly a 400 per cent increase across the board, according to CNN.

How Does This Affect You?

For starters, these new fees apply to everyone—regardless of nationality or how long you’ve soaked up the Maldivian sun. Most airlines are expected to include the fees in their ticket prices, sparing you from last-minute surprises. Still, if you’ve been flirting with the idea of a Maldives getaway, it might be smart to book your flights before November 30, 2024, to sidestep the extra costs.

Why the Maldives Remains Unmissable

The Maldives isn’t exactly a shoestring destination, and honestly, that’s part of its charm. People visit for those once-in-a-lifetime moments—the kind where you’re sipping coconut water on your overwater deck or marvelling at fish so colourful they look like they belong in a Pixar movie. That magic doesn’t change because of a few extra fees.

Let’s be honest—nobody’s thrilled about paying extra fees. But if there’s a bright side, it’s that these changes are meant to make travelling a bit easier. With upgrades coming to Velana International Airport, you can look forward to smoother check-ins, faster departures, and—fingers crossed—a lot less of that usual airport chaos.

Now, if you’ve been daydreaming about wading into those picture-perfect lagoons or treating yourself to a spa day where time feels like it doesn’t even exist, don’t let a price hike stop you. The Maldives is one of those rare places where life slows down, and you can actually feel yourself relax for a change.

Here’s the thing: plan ahead, tuck a little extra into your budget for the added costs, and just go for it. A trip to the Maldives isn’t like any other getaway—it’s one of those experiences that stays with you, long after the sunburn fades and you’re back to the routine.

 The Maldives will increase its exit fees from December 1, 2024, impacting all travellers. Discover the new charges and how to save on your trip to this dreamy destination.  Travel Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips