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Suite Sojourn logo – luxury travel concierge offering bespoke, harmonious, and personalized experiences

Before You Go to the Maldives & What to Expect Upon Arrival

Cheval Blanc Randheli
Cheval Blanc Randheli

Planning a trip to the Maldives?To ensure a smooth experience traveling to the Maldives, we have outlined the key steps you should take before you go, as well as what you can expect upon arrival. 

Here’s a quick guide on how to get to the Maldives to make your journey as smooth as possible. 

Here’s a quick guide on the best time to visit Maldives. 

Here’s a quick guide on what to expect upon arrival in the Maldives. 

Here’s your ultimate guide to visit the Maldives

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Travel Checklist

  1. Health Declaration Form: Complete the form 96-72 hours prior to your arrival. Submit your health declaration here.
  2. International Flights: Provide your flight details to the resort or your agent.
  3. Currency: USD is accepted at all resorts.
  4. Visa: No visa is required for travelers of any nationality.
  5. COVID-19 Requirements: No PCR test or vaccination card is required.
  6. Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your travel date.
  7. Booking Confirmation: Have proof of your resort booking.
  8. Proof of Departure: You need proof of your flight out of the Maldives.

Travel Insurance (Optional)

  • While optional, we highly recommend a travel insurance not just when traveling to the Maldives, but for ALL your trips. 
  • You can read all out our rationale for WHY you need to insure every trip. 

What to Expect Upon Arrival

Arrival at Velana International Airport

  • Disembarkation: You’ll disembark directly onto the tarmac and either walk or take a short bus ride to the arrival building.
  • Immigration: Proceed to the immigration line (business and first-class passengers have a separate line).
  • Security Screening: After immigration, your hand luggage will go through a security screening.
  • Baggage Claim: Check the display screens for your baggage carousel. Note that your luggage may be screened again for restricted items like alcohol or pork products.

Prohibited Items

  • Importing items like alcohol, pork products, and narcotics is forbidden. Exporting marine products is also prohibited.

Lost Luggage

  • If you cannot locate your baggage, report it to the Baggage Service desk for assistance and a reference number for follow-up.

International Arrival Hall

  • Meet & Greet Service: Look for representatives holding signs with your resort’s name or logo. If you can’t find them, look for the resort booth or ask an airport representative for directions.
  • Airport Assistance: Your representative will assist you with your onward transfer via speedboat, seaplane, or domestic flight.

Transfer Details

Speedboat/Yacht Transfer
  • Your representative will escort you to the boat/yacht. Some resorts have private lounges where you can wait with refreshments provided.
Seaplane Transfer
  • Seaplane transfers operate during daylight hours (6 am – 4 pm). The latest arrival time at Velana International Airport to ensure a seaplane transfer is 3:30 pm. The earliest guaranteed international departure is at 9 am. You will be escorted to the seaplane check-in counter and then to the seaplane terminal.
  Domestic Flight & Boat
  • Your representative will escort you to the domestic terminal. Check-in for domestic flights opens two hours before departure and closes 60 minutes prior. Upon arrival at the domestic airport, you will be assisted with your luggage and transferred to your resort island by boat.

General Luggage Allowance

  • Check-in Luggage: 44 lbs (20 kg) per person.
  • Hand Luggage: 11 lbs (5 kg) per person.
  • Additional weight may incur extra charges.

Domestic Flights & Transfers

When traveling on a domestic flight or by boat:
  1. Domestic Terminal: An airport representative will guide you to the domestic terminal, which is a short 2-5 minute walk from the arrival hall. At the terminal, check in your luggage and weigh your hand luggage.
  2. Boarding Pass & Lounge: After receiving your boarding pass and luggage receipts, you’ll be escorted to the departure area. If you have time before your flight, you may wait in the upstairs lounge.
  3. Check-in Time: Domestic flight check-in opens two hours before departure and closes 60 minutes prior to the flight.
  4. Flight Information: Departure screens will display live flight updates. When it’s time to board, your representative will escort you to the gate.
  5. Arrival & Transfer: Upon arrival, another representative will assist you with your luggage and escort you to the boat for your transfer to the resort island, where you’ll receive a warm welcome from the resort staff.

International Luggage Allowance

  • Business Class Travelers: 88 lbs (40 kg) for check-in luggage and 11 lbs (5 kg) for hand luggage per person. Excess weight may incur additional charges.
  • Economy Class Travelers: 44 lbs (20 kg) for check-in luggage and 11 lbs (5 kg) for hand luggage per person. Excess weight may incur additional charges.
Luggage exceeding these limits will be subject to excess weight fees, as determined by the airline. It is also advisable to avoid over-sized hand luggage, as some smaller aircraft may not have overhead compartments.

Additional Information

  • Currency Exchange: USD is recommended, though currency exchange is available at the Bank of Maldives counter before and after customs, along with in the arrival hall. 
  • Dress Code: Resorts follow an island chic dress code (smart casual). Avoid wearing bathing shorts and flip-flops in certain restaurants during the evening.
  • International Adaptors: The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. The UK-style three-pin socket is common, and resorts usually provide adaptors.
  • Tipping: Show appreciation for great service. Recommended tips:
    • Baggage assistant: USD $3-5
    • Spa treatment: USD $20+
    • Transfers (boat/flight crew): USD $5-10
    • Housekeeping: USD $2-5 per day
    • Butler: USD $20-$50 per day

With these insights, you’re well-prepared to start your Maldivian adventure. As you step into this captivating land of sun, sea, and sand, let the beauty of the Maldives surround you.

Book Your Next Trip to Maldives
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Urvshi Marwah

We curate an exclusive collection of luxury hotels, resorts, and villas, providing bespoke travel planning for discerning leisure and business clients who who appreciate value over cost.
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