BML gives extra $1,500 debit card limit for Umrah pilgrims
The existing $250 monthly debit card limit remains available for Umrah pilgrims, bringing the total card limit to $1,750.
The Bank of Maldives (BML) on Monday announced an additional $1,500 limit on debit cards for customers performing Umrah during the upcoming Ramadan and the first six days of Shawwal this year.
Last week, President Mohamed Muizzu announced that $1,500 would be allocated for Umrah pilgrims this Ramadan, facilitating access to dollars at the official exchange rate.
According to a statement issued by BML:
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The additional limit can only be used in Saudi Arabia.
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It applies to one debit card per customer.
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The existing $250 monthly debit card limit remains available for Umrah pilgrims, bringing the total card limit to $1,750.
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The bank will continue selling tickets for $500 as before.
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The limit will be provided to those travelling in groups.
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Individuals travelling separately must submit a copy of their passport and ticket through the BML mobile app at least five days before departure, excluding bank holidays.
The government has introduced measures to address foreign currency availability in the Maldives, including:
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A foreign exchange law requiring resorts to exchange $500 per tourist or 20% of their income.
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Category B establishments, including guesthouses, safaris, and hotels, must exchange $25 per tourist per month or 20% of their monthly foreign exchange earnings.
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Tourist service providers and non-financial institutions that received at least $15 million in foreign currency over the past year for services and goods must exchange 20% of their monthly foreign currency income.
