32 Israelis in Maldives at entry ban
President Muizzu ratified the amendment on Tuesday, shortly after its approval by parliament.
Thirty-two Israeli tourists were in the Maldives when President Mohamed Muizzu ratified an amendment to the Immigration Act on Tuesday, banning entry into the Maldives on Israeli passports.
According to immigration data, the 32 individuals were in the country as of Monday night. Authorities are reportedly taking steps to ensure their protection and arrange their transfer abroad.
Statistics from the Ministry of Tourism indicate that 283 Israeli tourists have arrived in the Maldives so far this year. In comparison, 10,966 Israeli tourists visited the Maldives in 2023. The figure for last year marked a significant decrease of 86.9 percent from the previous year.
The government’s decision to ban Israeli passport holders from entering the Maldives followed a cabinet resolution. The legislative process began last year when Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) MP Meekail Naseem proposed the amendment.
The parliament committee concluded its review of the bill and forwarded it to the floor, where it was passed. President Muizzu ratified the amendment on Tuesday, shortly after its approval by parliament.
The amendment does not affect dual citizens of Israel.
