Amidst diplomatic tensions, the Maldivian government recently made a decision to bar entry for Israeli nationals. In response, the Israel embassy in New Delhi has urged its citizens to consider India as an alternative destination for their travels. Emphasizing the warmth of Indian hospitality, the embassy recommended several breathtaking beaches across the country, including Lakshadweep, Goa, Kerala, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
In a message shared on X (formerly Twitter), the Israel embassy in New Delhi conveyed, “Given the recent developments in the Maldives, here are some incredible Indian beaches awaiting Israeli travelers, where they are welcomed with open arms and genuine warmth. Explore these suggestions from @IsraelinIndia, inspired by the journeys of our diplomatic corps.”
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, acting on a recommendation from the Cabinet, has enforced a ban on Israeli passports as of June 2nd. The announcement was made by Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihsaan, during a press conference on Sunday, as per a statement released by the President’s office in the Maldives.
Reports indicate that the Cabinet’s decision encompasses amendments to existing laws to prevent entry of Israeli passport holders into the Maldives. Additionally, a Cabinet subcommittee has been tasked with overseeing the implementation of these measures. Furthermore, in light of the situation in Palestine and Israel, the President has appointed a special envoy to assess the needs of the Palestinian people. This move by the Muizzu administration coincides with the ongoing conflict between Gaza and Israel.
Furthermore, the President has initiated a fundraising campaign in solidarity with Palestine, with assistance from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East. Additionally, a nationwide rally under the banner “Falastheenaa Eku Dhivehin,” meaning “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine,” is scheduled to demonstrate support. Although the Maldives established diplomatic ties with Israel in 1965, they were severed in 1974. While a previous ban on Israeli tourists was lifted in the early 1990s, relations were restored in 2010, only to be terminated by the Abdulla Yameen-led government in 2014, along with a ban on Israeli goods.
Despite these diplomatic maneuvers, Israeli tourism in the Maldives has been on the rise. Renowned for its upscale tourism offerings, the Maldives attracts visitors from across the globe, including Israel. The allure of luxury resorts, water sports, and natural splendor draws Israeli tourists to the Maldives. Its strategic location in the Indian Ocean further enhances its appeal as an exotic and serene holiday destination for Israeli travelers. While direct flights from Israel to the Maldives are currently unavailable, travelers can conveniently connect through major hubs such as Dubai, Istanbul, or Doha, facilitating access to the Maldives.
According to the Maldives Ministry of Tourism, the number of Israeli visitors to the country saw a significant decline in the first quarter of this year, with only 528 arrivals, marking an 89% decrease compared to the same period in 2023. Despite this setback, the Maldives, with its modest population of just over 500,000, continues to welcome over one million tourists annually.