The Maldives will start welcoming guests again on July 15, 2020. It was made official by the President of Maldives, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. On June 23, the President stated that the country would open its border after almost four months of lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The first case of Covid-19 in Maldives was recorded on March 7. After that, the country closed its borders on March 27. The Maldives entered a full lockdown stage on April 15 when a local was tested positive in the Capital of Maldives, Male’ City. As of June 27, there have been 2283 confirmed cases out of which 1863 successfully recovered.
The President stated that the resorts would be allowed to welcome guests on July 15. Since the Maldives is a country dependent on tourism, this would be an immense relief to the tourism industry hence to the economy of the country as well. President also affirmed that major actions are planned by the government to help the country recover and adapt to a “new normal” after the Covid-19 break.
Aside from opening the borders and resorts, the restrictive measurements in the country will also be put to ease. This includes the opening of mosques, schools, restaurants, and cafes. Although most of the resorts and public places will be opening in July, the local guesthouses will resume business in August.
The Minister of Tourism, Mr Ali Waheed, also welcomed tourists all around the world with a warm-hearted video. This short video showcased the beauty of the Maldives and portrayed how excited the country was to welcome back its delightful guests once again. The tourism minister stated ” We are opening again. So pack your bags, and get ready to visit Maldives again. Cause the sun; will definitely shine again.”
Opening the borders will mean that tourism in Maldives will start booming once again. The country has shown great improvement since the first stages of Covid-19, and the “One island one resort” concept of Maldives is still the safest way to spend a holiday anywhere around the world.