Maldives updates Tourist Taxes: All You Must Know Before You Go

08 January, 2025

If you are planning the Maldives holidays, it is good to know the new tourist taxes that will take effect in 2025. Being informed about the Maldives Green Tax, airport taxes and additional costs will help you better plan your trip and fully enjoy the unique beauty of this paradise.

What is the Green Tax in the Maldives 2025?

From January 1, 2025, the Green Tax for tourists in the Maldives will see a significant increase. If you stay in a resort, hotel, guesthouse, or liveaboard, you will pay $12 per person per night (up from the previous $6).

For guesthouses on inhabited islands with fewer than 50 rooms, the tax will be $6 per person per night (up from the previous $3).

Children under 2 years old will be exempt from this tax, a decision aimed at making travel more accessible for families.

The Impact of Green Tax on Diving Cruises

If you choose a liveaboard holidays, it is important to know that starting January 1, 2025, a $6 per night per guest integration will be applied, payable directly onboard in cash (USD).

Starting in August 2025, the full amount of the Green Tax will no longer be included in package prices but will be collected separately onboard. This alignment with the new regulations ensures transparency and compliance.

Additionally, affordable dive safaris Maldives and Maldives diving packages will reflect these changes, making it crucial for divers to plan accordingly.

What is the TGST rate in the Maldives?

The TGST (Tourism Goods and Services Tax) will increase from 16% to 17% starting July 1, 2025. This increase will apply to all tourism-related goods and services, including diving cruises. If you are planning a trip, it is important to consider these additional costs in your budget.

For those traveling on liveaboards, this increase will be managed through adjustments to onboard service pricing. Special offers, such as luxury dive cruises Maldives and family-friendly dive trips Maldives, will also be updated.

Maldives Airport Taxes and Departure Fees: New Rules from December 1, 2024

Airport taxes have increased starting December 1, 2024. Now foreign tourists will pay:

• $50 for economy class
• $120 for business class
• $240 for first class
• $480 for private jets

These changes align with the Maldivian government’s commitment to improving infrastructure. Options such as eco-friendly dive cruises and underwater adventures in the Maldives remain a key attraction despite the adjustments.

How to Manage the New Costs: Practical Tips

1. Carry Cash in USD: All additional taxes, including the Green Tax and service fees, must be paid onboard in cash.
2. Update Your Bookings: Ensure that cost information is clearly communicated at the time of booking.
3. Take advantage of liveaboard operators' offers: Liveaboard cruises offer competitive packages. However, it is important to note that the recent tax changes, including the Green Tax and TGST, may influence the overall cost of these experiences.Unique activities like night dives, manta ray encounters, and whale shark sightings remain accessible, but divers should plan ahead for these additional fees. Exploring Maldives dive cruise deals can help balance costs and ensure a memorable adventure.

Why Are High Taxes Necessary?

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